Bishoftu, Ethiopia – The Data Science Without Borders (DSWB) project, one of the projects under the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), successfully concluded its week-long hackathon in Bishoftu, focusing on AI-based solutions for health data challenges. The competition awarded 200,000 Birr to the winning teams in each of the two distinct categories.
In the “Data Anomaly Detection” category, the team comprising Sinshaw Legesse and Mengistu Engdaw emerged victorious for their innovative solution. For the “Record Linkage” category the winning team, Yishak Abreham and Melsew Belachew, were recognized for their solution designed to integrate and link health data.
Professor Afework Kassu Gizaw, Director General of the Armauer Hansen Research Institute, attended the hackathon, providing encouragement to the participants. He also extended his gratitude to the experts who offered professional support and evaluated the outcomes, emphasizing the critical need for homegrown technological solutions tailored to local context to address challenges in the sector.
The hackathon saw enthusiastic participation from various institutions and universities across Ethiopia, Africa, and worldwide. The vibrant awards ceremony was attended by experts who mentored the participants and evaluated the final results, alongside Dr. Alemseged Abdissa, AHRI’s Deputy Director, and other DSWB project partners.
A panel discussion was also held during the event, focusing on opportunities and challenges of leveraging AI for health research.
The Data Science Without Borders project is known for its collaborative efforts with other African countries, regional health bureaus, and health and demography systems. Its mission is to strengthen health data systems in Africa and promote evidence-based decision-making.
