CSIR researchers, Nyalleng Moorosi, Dr Vukosi Marivate and Dr Benjamin Rosman, including CSIR Modelling and Digital Science Executive Director Prof. Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, will be participating in the first Deep Learning Indaba taking place from 10 - 15 September 2017. This is the first of the annual series of master classes on deep learning and machine learning for South African researchers and technologists, which is the result of partnerships, among others, the Department of Science and Technology, the CSIR, the University of the Witwatersrand, Google and DeepMind. The view of the organisers is that there are many challenges that researchers on the continent are addressing, many of which are unique, however the machine learning solutions and techniques developed might be applicable to other challenges across the world. As such, by one measure, increasing the participation of African researchers in the international machine learning community is one of the goals of the Indaba.

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are seen as fields that are critical to the next evolution of industry, bringing new economic opportunities and potential impact for society. Vukosi believes that “we cannot only be consumers of such technology, but must be driving research within this area that takes into account our local context. This will further increase the diversity of voices in the field, hopefully reducing challenges such as bias.”

The Indaba brings together around 300 attendees from 23 different countries, mainly in Africa, comprising students, academics and industry professionals. According to Benjamin, “The enthusiasm for this event has been overwhelming, and we had well over 700 applicants, which was far more than we were able to accommodate. It is very positive to see so many people, both in South Africa and the rest of Africa, excited about this field of research.”

Visit: www.deeplearningindaba.com for more information about the Indaba.