In a moment of celebration and pride for the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Dr. Neema Mduma, a Senior Lecturer in the School of Computational and Communication Sciences and Engineering, has been honoured with the prestigious Anta Diop Award at this year’s 2024 Deep Learning Indaba.

The Anta Diop Award, a prestigious accolade bestowed by the Deep Learning Indaba, shines a spotlight on early to mid-career African researchers who are making waves in the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computational sciences.

Dr. Mduma, known for her groundbreaking work in AI-driven sustainable development, has been recognized not only for her innovative research but also for her profound commitment to teaching and community service.

Dr. Mduma’s journey is one of dedication and impact. At NM-AIST, she has been a beacon of knowledge and inspiration, guiding students and fostering new talent while pushing the boundaries of AI technology. Her work extends beyond the classroom and laboratory, reaching into the community through outreach initiatives that aim to make AI advancements accessible and beneficial to all.

Receiving the Anta Diop Award is a testament to Dr. Mduma’s remarkable contributions and her unwavering passion for advancing AI in Africa. The entire NM-AIST community joins in celebrating this momentous achievement, recognizing Dr. Mduma not just as a researcher, but as a trailblazer paving the way for future generations in the field of AI.