Tech bootcamp grads develop AI solutions to Haiti’s challenges

(Haitiantimes) PORT-AU-PRINCE — In just a few months at a tech bootcamp, students Rolddy Surpris and Naël Yssa Iben Ahmed Robert developed a method for breast cancer detection — using artificial intelligence (AI).

“After a mammogram, there will no longer be a need for manual interpretation of the data—just input it into our model,” Surpris said, “and it will indicate whether the tumor is benign or malignant.”

Surpris was speaking Nov. 9 during a showcase demonstrating what 71 graduating students had learned at Akademi. The selective six-month tech bootcamp had taught and challenged its 100 participants to produce AI-powered solutions to tackle real Haitian challenges, from medical diagnosis to food crisis prevention.

Akademi delivered intensive courses across three major categories, including online sessions in a country with limited Internet access, assignments, and research.

Akademi youth prove merits of AI in Haiti

Sunday’s event marked the very first Capstone Project Showcase, held in partnership with Quisqueya University, and dedicated to presenting the final projects completed by learners. Of the 71 students trained, 39 specialized in data science and AI, 23 in cybersecurity, and nine in software engineering. All nine projects focused on practical applications of AI across various sectors.

“The idea was to put artificial intelligence in the hands of young people and help them develop a vision that allows them to become not only competent professionals, but also agents of change,” said Evenson Calixte, Vice-Rector of Université Quisqueya.

Participants Richecard Blade Daméus and Berodly Thélus, who specialized in data science and AI, created a model that assesses national risk levels using key economic, climatic, and environmental indicators.

“We want our tool to be able to provide support, especially during humanitarian or agricultural efforts—should public institutions choose to engage in this area, which would impact the majority of Haitians,” said Daméus.

Two software engineering teams, guided by Madsen Servius and Jean Andris Adam, built two models: ‘Finans Pam’ for personal finance and ‘Datakle’ for public-sector project management. In cybersecurity, students led by Dupuy Rony Charles developed a collaborative breach-analysis simulation.

Despite needing refinements, the students’ clear presentations and well-documented methods showed how effectively they aligned their projects with real-world needs.

“It is with great pride that I can tell you that, regardless of the institution—whether large or small companies—you can trust these 23 graduates,” said Doré Josmy, an initiator of the cybersecurity project.

“Do not wait until you become the victim of an attack to reach out to us,” he added. “You can also contact us as a preventive measure against these issues.”