Kabale University Student Shines at Prestigious AI Conference in Uganda

Kabale University is proud to celebrate the achievements of one of its own, Namutebi Esther, a third-year Computer Science student and an active member of the IndabaX Kabale University Club. Namutebi recently attended the Deep Learning IndabaX Uganda conference, held in Kampala, thanks to funding from the University of Leeds, which made it possible for over 100 students from across Africa to participate in this transformative event.

The week-long conference, organized by the University of Leeds in partnership with Deep Learning Indaba, brought together more than 300 participants with a shared passion for data science and machine learning. This initiative aims to expand knowledge, foster collaborations, and enable more Africans to contribute to global conversations on machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI).

Reflecting on her experience, Namutebi described the event as “incredibly impactful,” noting that it provided her with invaluable insights and connections. “Without the funding, I would not have been able to attend the event, which opened doors for me in ways that have greatly expanded my academic and professional horizons,” she said.

Namutebi was not only an attendee but also a keynote speaker, presenting her project on ‘Predictive Model for Drug Resistance in HIV from Genetic Data.’ She shared how the conference exposed her to diverse research areas, including astrophysics and ecology, and equipped her with new tools to apply in her studies and future career.

“The knowledge and skills I gained from this event will undoubtedly benefit me in the future,” Namutebi said. “The networking opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge research have enriched my understanding and motivated me to explore interdisciplinary applications of AI, particularly in health, astrophysics, and ecology. I feel more confident and inspired to make meaningful contributions to the field.”

The Deep Learning IndabaX Uganda conference is part of a broader effort to build and sustain partnerships between the University of Leeds and African institutions. The initiative, supported by the International Strategy Fund (ISF), aims to address global challenges and harness Africa’s potential in machine learning and AI for economic development and community-driven solutions.

Kabale University recognizes the importance of such opportunities for its students and commends the University of Leeds for its commitment to fostering international collaboration. These partnerships provide a platform for African students and researchers to excel on the global stage while addressing local and regional challenges.

As Namutebi continues to apply the knowledge gained from this pivotal experience, her journey serves as an inspiration for other students at Kabale University and beyond. The university remains committed to supporting its students in accessing opportunities that enhance their learning, research, and professional growth.

For more details on this inspiring story, visit the University of Leeds website: Funding for global students.