About the editors
Dr Uchechukwu Levi Osuagwu (PhD, MSc, OD, FAAO) is a Senior Lecturer and Academic Lead at Bathurst Rural Clinical School, Western University Sydney, Australia. With a substantial background in Optometry and Vision Science, Dr. Levi is a recognised expert in public and eye health research, spearheading initiatives with far-reaching implications. As a coordinator of diverse local and international research projects, Dr. Levi pioneers advancements in population screening, diabetes identification and prevention, and health promotion. His multidisciplinary, translational approach is reflected in collaborations with leading institutions globally, resulting in the establishment of two impactful research groups − Center for Eyecare and Public Health Intervention Initiative (CEPHII) and the African Translational Research Group. Together, these groups boast an impressive record: 18 peer-reviewed papers, presentations at three international conferences and four community forums, and a prestigious Tet fund grant from the Nigerian government. Dr Levi’s influence extends across borders, fostering collaboration with the African Vision Research Institute and orchestrating international partnerships with entities like the Tongan GDM taskforce and Diabetes Foundation Aotearoa (New Zealand).
Beyond academic realms, Dr Levi actively contributes to the global health dialogue, presenting at esteemed conferences such as the Association for Research in Vision Conference in Canada. His editorial prowess extends to over 15 international journals. He serves as a reviewer for the Irish Health Research Board, and is an affiliate of the University of Kwazulu-Natal and a committee member for curriculum development at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya. Dr Levi’s impact resonates in groundbreaking initiatives, from a collaborative epidemiological study in Auckland, New Zealand, to upskilling Indigenous Australian communities on retinal screening protocols. His innovative model of using a van for diabetes self-care promotion in Wollondilly has set a precedent, now emulated by numerous Local Health Districts (LHDs). With over 95 publications in highly regarded journals and a citation count of 900 (H-index=22), Doctor Levi Osuagwu stands as a trailblazer whose work transcends disciplines, fostering positive change in public health and beyond.
Associate Professor Kingsley Agho (PhD, MPH, MSc, MEng, BEd) is from the School of Health Sciences, Western University Sydney, Australia, and is a world-leading researcher in Global Public Health. His work has contributed to programs of research, education and policy-related messages across Australia, South Asia and Sub-Saharan African countries. Kingsley has also been involved in designing and analysing large-scale community-based cluster RCTs worth over 12 million dollars with a track record of over 300 peer-reviewed journal articles (H-Index=63, according to Google Scholar, January 2024). Kingsley has mentored young researchers and has facilitated growth and development of alumni through mentorship, including graduating 25 PhD students in the past decade, many of whom have been employed in recognised universities overseas and in Australia. Kingsley is also an Honorary Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a Visiting Professor at the University of Johannesburg, both in South Africa.
Bernadine Nsa Ekpenyong (PhD, MPH, FNCO, OD, FAAO) is an esteemed academic, editor and researcher, and boasts over two decades of expertise in optometry and public health (Epidemiology). She is currently an Associate Professor of Public Health Epidemiology and Unit Head at the Epidemiology unit, Department of Public Health, University of Calabar, Nigeria. Her academic journey began with a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria, followed by MPH and PhD degrees in Public Health (Epidemiology) from the University of Calabar. As a Fellow of the Nigeria Post Graduate College of Optometrists (FNCO) and the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO), Doctor Ekpenyong has received accolades for her impactful research, securing awards and grants locally and internationally. In addition to her academic roles, she holds leadership positions, including Chair of the Faculty of Public Health Optometry at the Nigeria Post Graduate College of Optometrists. Serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the Nigerian Optometric Association from 2016 to 2023 and as an Editor of the Journal of Epidemiological Society of Nigeria, Dr Ekpenyong contributes significantly to scholarly publications. Engaging in global research collaborations, Dr Ekpenyong has played pivotal roles in initiatives such as the Center for Eyecare and Public Health Intervention Initiative (CEPHII) and the African Transitional Research Group (ATRG). Her contributions, including notable work on the COVID-19 pandemic published in high-impact journals, exemplify her dedication to advancing Optometry and Public Health. Dr Bernadine Nsa Ekpenyong is a model of excellence, shaping these fields through her multifaceted contributions.
Professor Khathutshelo Percy Mashige (PhD, MOptom, BOptom) completed a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree at the University of Witwatersrand. He graduated with a Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) degree at the former University of Durban Westville. Professor Mashige completed his Master of Optometry (MOptom) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He is the current Dean and Head of the School of Health Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Professor Mashige is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the African Vision Research Institute (AVRI), Chairperson of the Education, Training and Registration Committee (ETRC) of the Professional Board for Optometry and Dispensing Opticians (PBODO) and the Chairperson of the African Eye Institute (AEI). He is a member of the African Translational Research Group (ATReG) and the Centre for Eye Care and Public Health Intervention Initiative (CEPHII), which are global forums for African researchers to stimulate greater collaboration in Africa in health-related research. Prof Mashige has published extensively in clinical optometry, epidemiology and public health. He is a South African National Research Foundation-rated scientist and an Associate Editor of BMC Ophthalmology. He is a recipient of many research grants and awards for outstanding contributions to his field.
Professor Tanko Ishaya (PhD, MSc, BSc) is a highly accomplished academic specialising in computer science and mathematics, boasting over 25 years of experience in the field. After graduating from the University of Jos, Nigeria, with a BSc in Mathematics, he pursued advanced studies abroad, earning an MSc and PhD in Computer Science from the University of Manchester, UK. Throughout his career, Professor Tanko has held various leadership positions, including Director of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Jos. He has also served as a visiting Professor at the University of Hull, UK, where he made significant contributions to internet computing.
With a keen research interest, Professor Tanko has published extensively and secured numerous research grants, contributing to the advancement of data engineering, computer security and forensics. His academic endeavours have led to the supervision of both PhD and MSc students in the UK and Nigeria, as well as mentorship of undergraduate students in their final-year projects. As a Fellow of both the British Computer Society and the Nigerian Computer Society, Professor Tanko’s expertise and leadership have made him a respected figure in academia and the IT industry.
