“The opportunity to study and do research in Germany with the support of SECAI has been invaluable. It’s helped me deepen my expertise while also broadening my academic exposure,” Aswani Krishna Vijaya Kumar says. SECAI’s research focus area on AI in life sciences aligns closely with her long-term interest in using machine learning for impactful applications in healthcare. Originally from a background in data science with a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science, the interdisciplinary nature of the programme complements Aswani’s academic and project experience – spanning deep learning, image processing, and natural language processing – which she is now expanding into the field of bioinformatics.

Currently enrolled in the course RNA Secondary Structure Prediction through Deep Learning at the University of Leipzig, Binsa Muhammed Iqbal is working on a project that perfectly aligns with her interest in computational biology. She appreciates the German education system’s emphasis on independent research and creative problem solving, which contrasts with the more exam-focused approach she experienced in India. Reflecting on her motivation, she says, “The opportunity to collaborate internationally and engage with cutting-edge research at Leipzig University is a major driving factor for me. I saw it as a chance to grow both academically and personally while contributing to a wider research network.” Looking ahead, Binsa hopes to deepen her research in computational biology and establish global connections that may support future PhD studies or joint research projects.

Sreelekshmi Prasannakumari Amma also comes from a data science background, with a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science. She has previously worked on projects in image recognition and language processing. Motivated by SECAI’s mission to apply AI to real-world challenges – particularly in healthcare – she saw the programme as a perfect opportunity to deepen her expertise. At Leipzig University, she is expanding her skills through courses such as “Artificial Intelligence,” “Deep Learning,” and “Machine Learning.” Sreelekshmip shares: “SECAI gives you great support, a chance to meet people from different backgrounds, and work on important, meaningful topics. If you're interested in using AI to make a difference, this is a great opportunity.”

The aim of the exchange is primarily to foster closer scientific cooperation in the field of data science, particularly to attract highly talented students to pursue doctoral degrees through jointly supervised theses. In addition, this also provides doctoral students with the opportunity to complete longer research stays in Kerala, which is naturally beneficial not only from an academic perspective but also in terms of cultural exchange.