On 17 September 2024, the School of Science & Technology at City St George's will honour four of its most outstanding alumni at its third, annual STEM Alumni Awards ceremony.
Philip Adzanoukpe is the runner-up for this year's Excellence in STEM Achievement Award.
Philip graduated from City St George's, University of London with an MSc in Data Science (Distinction) in 2020, and is an innovative technology leader and entrepreneur specialising in scalable software systems and artificial intelligence (AI).
With more than seven years of experience driving impactful advancements, Philip is recognized as a visionary in AI and a role model in STEM, having made significant contributions to several organizations, including Triller Inc. and Epigos AI.
In a wide-ranging interview, Philip shared his experiences of studying at City St George's, his insights into the field of data science and what has helped him excel in his career to date.
What were your motivations for studying at City St George's?
PA:
My motivation for studying at City St George's, University of London, was driven by its comprehensive master's program in data science. City St George's course modules covered all the essential areas I needed, including data analysis, machine learning, computer vision, deep learning, and reinforcement learning. The combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience was ideal for preparing students for both industry and academia.
Additionally, City St George's strong ties to industry, renowned faculty, and prime location in London offered unparalleled networking and collaboration opportunities. The vibrant and diverse community fostered creativity and innovation, enhancing the overall learning experience. These factors made City St George's, University of London, the perfect choice for my data science career aspirations.
What were the highlights and challenges of your master’s degree programme in Data Science at City St George's?
PA:
The highlights of my master’s degree program were numerous. One of the most rewarding aspects was learning the fundamentals of machine learning, which provided a strong foundation for my career. Additionally, the data science weekly conference was a standout feature, bringing industry experts to share their experiences and knowledge. These sessions were incredibly insightful and offered a real-world perspective on the field.
The main challenge was adapting to online lectures due to the COVID-19 pandemic towards the end of the course, but with strong support from lecturers and the school's infrastructure, we successfully navigated this transition.
How did your studies at City St George's assist you to transition towards your present role as CEO and founder of Epigos AI?
PA:
My studies at City St George's, University of London, played a pivotal role in preparing me for my current role as CEO and founder of Epigos AI. The program provided me with a deep understanding of AI fundamentals. In addition, the program's rigorous academic environment challenged me to think critically and creatively, honing my problem-solving abilities. These skills have been invaluable in leading my team at Epigos AI to create cutting-edge technologies that automate business workflows through computer vision and AI.
What have been your career highlights in the field of Data Science?
PA:
My career in Data Science has been marked by several significant highlights. Shortly after graduating, I joined Triller, a prominent social video app, where I played a key role in developing video analytics systems and recommendation tools. These innovations personalised user feeds, enhancing engagement and user satisfaction.
Beyond Triller, I've contributed to diverse projects, including fine-tuning computer vision models for road defect inspection and cocoa disease detection for precision agriculture.
Drawing from these experiences, I founded Epigos AI, a platform that empowers businesses to create customised computer vision models.This entrepreneurial venture represents a culmination of my career journey, combining technical expertise with a passion for innovation to drive meaningful change in the AI landscape.
Why would you recommend City St George's as a place to study STEM and specifically Data Science?
PA:
I would recommend City St George's, University of London, especially for studying STEM and Data Science, due to its rich history, strong technical background, and esteemed reputation in STEM education. City St George's has established itself as a leading institution known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to excellence in various STEM disciplines.
The university offers a diverse range of courses that are designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, essential for success in today's competitive industry. The faculty at City St George's comprises experienced professionals and researchers who are leaders in their respective fields, providing students with unparalleled insights and mentorship.
What are the main issues facing the UK in terms of STEM from your perspective?
PA:
From my perspective, some of the main issues facing the UK in terms of STEM include a skills shortage; diversity and inclusion; and upskilling and technological advancement.
There is a persistent shortage of skilled professionals in STEM fields, particularly in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science. Addressing this gap requires concerted efforts in education and training to equip individuals with relevant skills that meet industry demands.
There is a need for greater diversity and inclusion within the STEM workforce. Women, ethnic minorities, and other underrepresented g roups continue to be underrepresented in STEM careers. Promoting diversity not only fosters innovation and creativity but also ensures that STEM solutions are inclusive and representative of diverse perspectives.
The rapid pace of technological advancement necessitates continuous upskilling of the existing workforce. Professionals in STEM fields must stay updated with evolving technologies and methodologies to remain competitive and relevant in the global landscape.
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to foster a supportive ecosystem that encourages lifelong learning, promotes diversity, and meets the evolving needs of the STEM sector in the UK.
