Tony Ombaso, a rising star in the world of software engineering, clinched one of the most prestigious academic honours of the year. As a Junior Software Engineer at Strathmore @iLabAfrica, Tony has been named the Regional Winner in Computer Science at the highly competitive Global Undergraduate Awards for his thesis, ‘A Deep Learning Model for the Segmentation and Classification of Melanoma Skin Lesions.’
This achievement places him among the brightest minds in academia, as the Global Undergraduate Awards spotlight top-tier undergraduate research from around the world.
Where it all began? In a modest Kenyan boarding school, the seeds of Tony’s passion for computer science were planted. Devoid of smartphones or constant access to technology, students had to make do with a single feature phone for communication. Yet, from this simple device, a lifelong pursuit of digital mastery began.
“We didn’t have personal phones to call home, so our class teacher gave us a phone when we needed to make calls. It was a basic feature phone, the kind with a small screen and buttons. My classmate was using it to learn C++, one of the foundational programming languages. When he showed it to me, I was intrigued,” Tony recalls.
What started as curiosity quickly evolved into passion. Upon returning home from school, Tony wasted no time diving into the world of programming, starting with Python. “I’ve always had a love for computers, especially video games. But it wasn’t until that moment, in Form One, that I knew programming was my future. By Form Three, I was certain I would study computer science. That path hasn’t changed since.”
His award-winning project focused on something both personal and global. The early detection of melanoma skin cancer using artificial intelligence (AI). “I submitted my final-year project, which aimed to make early melanoma detection easier. It is a challenge in Africa, where we have limited access to dermatologists. By using AI to analyse suspicious moles, we could significantly improve the chances of early diagnosis,” says Tony
For Tony, winning the award was not only a personal achievement but also a validation. “The award reinforced my commitment to always strive for excellence,” he said. “Sometimes, when you are doing a degree, it’s easy to just complete tasks to meet the requirements. But this experience reminded me that each opportunity, like a final-year project, is a chance to make a real impact.”
Tony’s AI-driven solution for detecting melanoma is just one example of his drive to create meaningful change. In a field rapidly being transformed by AI and automation, he sees himself as part of the disruptive force shaping the future. “AI is going to change everything. It’s already reshaping industries, and as developers, we need to either lead the disruption or be disrupted. I want to be on the cutting edge of this change.”
Throughout his journey, Tony has drawn inspiration from the teachings of Saint JoseMaria Escrivá, the founder of Strathmore University. “His message of doing ordinary things extraordinarily well has always resonated with me. It’s not just about achieving great things but also doing every task, no matter how small, with purpose and passion. That’s the mind-set I carry with me.”
Tony’s journey from a boarding school feature phone to a globally recognized computer science project is a testament to perseverance and passion. He encourages others to embrace their opportunities, no matter how small they may seem. “There’s so much potential in the ordinary things we do. You don’t need to wait for some grand moment to start making an impact. Whatever you’re working on now, give it your all. You never know where it might lead.”
For aspiring engineers, researchers, and innovators, Tony has one piece of advice. Take the leap. “The Global Undergraduate Awards is just one example of the many platforms out there to showcase your work. Don’t miss the chance to make your mark. You never know, it could be your work that shines on the global stage next.”
As Tony’s career continues to unfold, his ambition remains clear. “This award has given me more confidence in my research and career goals. I am even more motivated now to pursue cutting-edge work in AI and computer science. The recognition is a stepping stone, and I’m ready for what’s next.”
Article written by Stephen Wakhu and Ajuna Lindah