Students have started meeting with their respective advisors and working on their research projects that cover different areas of gender and artificial intelligence. One of the MEPI LiDS scholars, Samer Abdelrahim (Lebanon), who is currently working on Heavy Metal Contamination in Soils and Food Crops – Detection and Assessment Using Machine Learning Algorithms Based on Hyperspectral Images, says, “As part of this research project, I am developing and implementing machine learning algorithms for the aim of detection, classification, and prediction of heavy metal contamination in soil. I am extremely excited to be involved in a project that allows me to be part of the mitigating process, in addition to developing extensive skills in the innovative and leading fields of machine learning and data science."
At the beginning of the fall semester, graduate students took part in the Introduction to the Civic Leadership Development Sequence meeting. Following the meeting, teams were formed based on areas of interest and the geographical location of those interests. The size of teams ranges from two to five scholars. Six teams were formed (Gender, Social Cohesion, Protection, Public Health, Environmental Sustainability, and Education). Following the team formation, students received a situational analysis and problematic training that ensued in team situational analysis plans. Following feedback from the CCECS, teams are embarking on their data collection for their situational analysis. The information gathered will assist students in refining their themes and identifying their problems, as well as their partners and mentors.
Moreover, AUB is currently preparing to welcome a new cohort under the MEPI TLG program for the 2021-2022 Academic Year. Applications are now closed and are under processed. The new cohort will consist of 30 students from different nationalities, all being inthe Leaders in Data Sciences (LiDS) MEPI TLG program. We are excited to welcome this new cohort of students soon, and look forward to safely meeting all students on campus in the future.
Dalia Mosleh (Lebanon) on her research project:
My name is Dalia Mosleh. I am an Electrical and Computer Engineering graduate student, currently working on a research topic in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Humanity's Well Being, under the supervision of Professor Awad Mariette. This is so much of an interest to me as my aim from the beginning, when I applied for the MEPI scholarship, was to work on a project which uses technology for the benefit of humankind. We are applying machine learning methodologies in the healthcare and agriculture areas. I am most enjoying the programming section of this project, where we are studying and writing the algorithms for the models to be built. I am looking forward to being able to apply these models to serve society and improve people's lives.
Maha Weiss(Syria) on her CAP project:
“Working on the CAP project allows me to speak out loudly about what I believe regarding gender issues in our community and gives me a chance to do something to contribute to minimizing violence against women and increasing awareness about of rights. Personally, I think being in a team where each of us haver own perspective on such issues is really beneficial, because we practice accepting different opinions and ways of thinking."
Samer Abdelrahim (Lebanon) on his research project:
“Heavy metal pollution is a serious global environmental problem, in which huge research efforts are being put into place to reduce the risks posed by this problem to humans, plants, and animals. As part of this research project, I am developing and implementing machine learning algorithms for detection, classification, and prediction of heavy metal contamination in soil. I extremely excited to be involved in a project that allows me to be part of the mitigating process, in addition to developing extensive skills in the innovative and leading fields of machine learning and data science."