Segun Michael Ojetunde | Science and Technology Education | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Segun Michael Ojetunde | Science and Technology Education | Outstanding Scientist Award

University of Johannesburg | South Africa

Dr. Segun Michael Ojetunde is a distinguished researcher and educator specializing in educational evaluation, quantitative and qualitative research, and data analytics. He holds a Ph.D. in Educational Evaluation from the University of Ibadan and has contributed significantly to human capital development, assessment studies, and educational technology. Currently serving as a Research Associate at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, his work spans collaborations with institutions such as the University of Johannesburg, Universal Basic Education Commission, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Dr. Ojetunde’s research engagements include national evaluations, teacher training assessments, and large-scale education quality studies. His scholarly publications encompass book chapters and conference proceedings focusing on assessment tools, teacher competence, and students’ academic achievement. An active member of several professional associations, he also serves as a reviewer for the African Journal of Research in Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (AJRMSTE). Demonstrating strong analytical expertise, he is proficient in advanced statistical and modeling tools such as SPSS, SEM, R, Python, and Power BI. According to Google Scholar, Dr. Ojetunde has an h-index of 4, 12 documents, and 49 citations, reflecting his growing academic influence and impactful research contributions in education and evaluation studies.

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications 

Akinyemi, A. L., & Ojetunde, S. M. (2020). Techno-pedagogical models and influence of adoption of remote learning platforms on classical variables of education inequality during COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. Journal of Positive Psychology and Counselling, 7(1), 12–27.

Akinyemi, A., & Ojetunde, S. M. (2019). Comparative analysis of networking and e-readiness of some African and developed countries. Journal of Emerging Trends in Educational Research and Policy Studies, 10(2), [page numbers not provided].

Ramnarain, N., Ogegbo, A. A., Penn, M., Ojetunde, S. M., & Nuthando, U. (2024). Pre-service science teachers’ intention to use generative artificial intelligence in inquiry-based teaching. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 376–385.

Ojetunde, U., & Ramnarain, S. M. (2023). Applying 4IRs in education technology to science pedagogy: Effects and students’ experience. Journal of Smart Learning Environment, 10(32), 1–18.

Ojetunde, S., Ademidun, A., & Sangodoyin, T. (2020). Online learning platforms’ induced education inequalities and special education students’ learning attitude during COVID-19 pandemic homestay in the University of Ibadan. Online Learning, 12(23), 61–67.

Dr. Belinda du Plooy – Higher Education – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Belinda du Plooy - Higher Education - Best Researcher Award

Nelson Mandela University - South Africa

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID 

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Belinda du Plooy's academic journey is characterized by an impressive array of qualifications in both Public Relations and Literary Studies. She began with a National Diploma in PR Management from Port Elizabeth Technikon, focusing on Communication Science, Public Relations, and Media Studies. Dr. du Plooy then transitioned to the University of South Africa (UNISA), where she obtained a BA in English and Afrikaans Literature Studies, followed by a BA Honours, MA cum laude, and ultimately a DLitt et Phil in English Literature Studies. Her Master’s dissertation explored trauma, pain, and healing in the work of Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison, while her doctoral thesis examined compassion as a metanarrative in postmodern discourses from a Foucauldian perspective.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. du Plooy has dedicated nearly three decades to higher education, holding various roles across several institutions. Her experience spans academic administration, corporate management, project development, undergraduate lecturing, postgraduate supervision, research, and conference presentations.

Dr. du Plooy's contributions to academia are extensive. She has supervised over 40 postgraduate students across various disciplines, conducted independent research studies, led research teams, and published nearly 40 articles and chapters in accredited journals and books. Her research Higher Education interests include literature, philosophy, social psychology, popular culture, film studies, women’s studies, communication, media studies, academic engagement, and higher education practice.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. du Plooy’s work has garnered significant recognition. She has presented over 40 conference papers both locally and internationally, is an alumnus of the Oxford Research Symposiums and HERS-SA, and collaborates with the South African National Research Foundation’s SARCHI Chair in Identities and Social Cohesion in Africa and the East and South African-German Centre of Excellence for Educational Research Higher Education Methodologies and Management (CERMESA).

Impact and Influence

Dr. du Plooy's influence extends beyond her direct academic contributions. She has mentored numerous students and early-career academics, facilitated workshops on anti-bullying awareness, and actively participated in advocacy work, particularly addressing bullying and harassment in Higher Education higher education contexts. Her strategic and operational management at Nelson Mandela University has significantly advanced the institution’s engagement and research capacity.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. du Plooy's legacy is built on her dedication to fostering academic excellence, engagement, and ethical practices in higher education. Her future contributions will likely continue to shape the fields of literature, philosophy, and higher education practice through ongoing research, mentorship, and advocacy.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS