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Beneficiary of the 2023 Deepmind Scholarship

Ben Kabongo Buzangu, Master’s student in the MVA (Mathématiques, Vérification Apprentissage) program, is the beneficiary of an AI studies scholarship thanks to a sponsorship with Deepmind. Ben Kabongo explains the positive impact it had on his studies and his career.

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Interview with Ben Kabongo

What is your academic background?

I majored in computer science at Caen University to become a computer engineer. During a scientific calculus class in my second year, I discovered artificial intelligence (AI) and was fascinated by it. I shifted my focus on that and pursued a Master’s degree in AI at Paris-Sorbonne University.

Why did you choose the MVA Master’s program?

As soon as I knew that I wanted to work in AI, I understood that the MVA program was the best option for several reasons. Firstly, this program focuses on training for research, by research. It covers a wide array of topics, almost 60 classes are followed over two semesters. It offers an opportunity to dive deep in every subject tied to AI, to become an expert in a chosen field.

What makes you so passionate about AI?

I am fascinated by the many applications of AI to further scientific knowledge; cancer diagnosis through AI, for example. This innovation in no way replaces radiologists, it helps them by reducing the time spent reading scans and improving detection. In other words, I am fascinated by the power of data and the way scientists can create an algorithm based on it.

On top of the scholarship, you are mentored by a Deepmind collaborator; what does that bring you?

My mentor’s name is Guillaume, he lives in Canada. We talk quite often, and he gave me access to his calendar so I can reach out to him outside of our monthly scheduled meetings. Guillaume is an expert, he gives me precious insight on the field of AI and my academic choices. He is currently helping me prepare for the rest of my studies after I obtain my Master’s degree.

How does this scholarship help you in your studies?

I arrived in France in 2019. I lived with family friends in Caen. When I moved to Paris for my studies, I had to work even more outside of my studies to make ends meet. It was frustrating, I couldn’t focus entirely on my studies and succeed as I wanted. Thanks to this scholarship, I can devote myself entirely to my studies. It’s an incredible privilege! I had given myself a goal: reach a grade of 18/20 by the end of the year. I am well on my way now, maybe we can talk about it in September? (laughs)

Do you have professional goals? What are they?

I want to continue my studies and be accepted into a PhD program on automatic language computing. I want to do research and I hope to contribute to scientific breakthroughs.

What is the Deepmind Scholarship?

The Deepmind Scholarship is meant to open the way to studies in artificial intelligence to young students from underrepresented backgrounds. Diversity is an essential criteria in the selection of beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries receive:

  • A monthly 1000 euros grant for 12 months,
  • Help to procure computer equipment,
  • Reimbursement of travel fees to take part in events,
  • Mentoring to help in the creation of their professional project.

Part of the Mathematics department at the ENS Paris-Saclay, the Master 2 MVA research program is unique in France. This master trains 200 students each year, and creates a unique niche at the crossroads of mathematics and its neighboring fields, offering an innovative ecosystem which includes academic labs, research groups, startup companies, medium and large businesses in France and abroad.