DataCamp-Ishango.ai Scholarship Recipient: Meshack Kitonga
- Please share a bit about yourself and your background.
My name is Meshack Kitonga. I’m a data scientist from Kenya. I’m passionate about using data to solve real-world challenges and drive innovation. With experience applying data science to improve decision-making, optimise processes, and unlock the full potential of organisations, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful data science can be in creating meaningful impact in our society. For me, data science is not just about analysing numbers—it’s about using insights to make smarter, more efficient choices.
- What did you study, and how did you first become interested in data science?
I studied computer science, and my interest in data science began during university when we were introduced to concepts like data analysis and visualization using Python, SQL, pandas, and numpy. These tools showed me how data science could solve real-world problems across various industries. My time at Equity Bank was pivotal—it opened my eyes to the immense potential data holds for companies. I worked on several ad-hoc projects, which helped me realize how impactful data-driven insights can be for business decisions. This experience deepened my focus on data science, and I decided to pursue the field further. My passion truly took shape when I joined NCBA Bank as a Data Scientist, where I applied advanced analytics to improve credit risk assessments, predictive modeling, and support strategic decision-making.
- What has been your experience with the DataCamp-Ishango.ai scholarship so far?
The DataCamp-Ishango scholarship has been a transformative experience for me. In today’s world, there’s a growing demand for data specialists, and I feel fortunate to be part of this learning opportunity at such a pivotal time. The resources provided through the scholarship have allowed me to sharpen my skills in handling large datasets, building efficient workflows, and applying advanced algorithms to solve complex problems.
- What are your learning goals, and what do you hope to achieve through the DataCamp-Ishango scholarship?
My goal is to use the skills I’ve gained through the DataCamp-Ishango scholarship to tackle large-scale challenges that have the potential to transform lives. I’m particularly passionate about how data science can drive meaningful change. Whether it’s improving agricultural productivity, expanding access to financial services, or optimizing healthcare systems, data science provides the tools to address these critical issues. Through this scholarship, I am excited to apply what I’ve learned to foster innovation in Africa and contribute to solving global challenges like climate change, poverty, and healthcare disparities.