“This technology already existed for some crops, including citrus, but I wanted to extend it to staples like maize and sorghum because many Africans consume them,” he explained.

At Ashesi, what excites Mhodi most is the program’s hands-on approach. Unlike his undergraduate years, where internships weren’t an option, he looks forward to the structured opportunities for industry placements and active learning.

“That was one of the biggest reasons I applied, “he shared. I want the technical and entrepreneurial skills to launch a startup providing AI-driven solutions for African farmers. “Ashesi’s curriculum also helps develop communication, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, which are just as important if you want to take your ideas beyond the classroom and make them real.”

Beyond entrepreneurship, Mhodi also hopes to contribute to research that reflects Africa’s realities. “If you look at AI research today, it’s mostly designed for developed countries. There are almost no large language models for African languages,” he pointed out. “In the next five years, I want not only to start my own company but also to pursue a doctorate and do research relevant to Africa.”

As Kelvin Mhodi begins his postgraduate journey at Ashesi, he looks forward to collaborating with faculty, peers, and industry experts. “I’m excited to learn, share ideas, and work on impactful solutions geared toward transforming agriculture in Africa,” he said.