As the nerd that I am, this was my favorite excursion. On our first full day in South Africa, we traveled to the main campus of the University of Pretoria. We received a lecture from Dr. Vukosi Marivate, who is a Rutgers graduate and native South African. He is a computer scientist who specializes in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. He is a fountain of knowledge and a fantastic teacher.
Some points of interest from the lecture include but are not limited to…
- Machines learn a pattern and then make assumptions (e.g., X-ray machines use an algorithm to predict diagnosis)
- AI analysis of satellite data tracks deforestation and water usage, which inform sustainability outcomes
- Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) are needed to run data centers – they run HOT by generating noise and heat
- A CPU is the chip inside the GPU server, and these can make mistakes if the heat is too intense
- Data centers run on clean drinking water to preserve functionality; however, this diverts the water supply away from households
- Data centers could use their own water filters, but they are costly
- To avoid cognitive decline, think on pen and paper THEN use AI
- Learn how to learn!
Sara in South Africa 
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