Meet the Team
Behind every great learning experience is a team of passionate educators, researchers, technologists and professionals. At ADA Global Academy, our team brings together expertise in data science, artificial intelligence, statistics, research, technology and business development to create practical and impactful learning experiences.
Building Africa's Data Science Future
Our work is built around three complementary functions. Together, they ensure that ADA delivers excellent training, reaches learners and partners, and continuously develops its technological and research capabilities.
Deliver
Ensures that what we teach is relevant, rigorous and practical, while supporting learners throughout their learning journey.
Grow
Expands the Academy's reach through marketing, community engagement, partnerships and strategic business development.
Enable
Provides the technology, operations and research capabilities that allow the Academy to operate effectively and continuously create new knowledge.
Our people
Meet the professionals helping to shape the future of data science education at ADA Global Academy.
Patrick Tenga Shako
Academic Director
Patrick Tenga Shako is an expert in Machine Learning and Data Science. His research focuses on deep learning for health informatics, with particular interest in culturally aware AI for low-resource languages, hybrid neural network architectures, and the theoretical foundations of AI. He previously served as a Teaching Assistant at Nouveaux Horizons University in the DR Congo. Patrick holds an MSc from AIMS Senegal and an honours degree in Mathematics and Computing from the University of Lubumbashi. A dynamic and innovative contributor to the African AI ecosystem, he has presented at conferences across the continent, co-organised the first Indaba X DR Congo in 2019, and engages through publications, mentorship, master's thesis supervision and conference speaking.
Daniels Nii Ashirifie
Head of Training and Student Success
Daniels Nii Ashirifie is a Data Scientist and AI Engineer with a background in Actuarial Science from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, and an MSc in Mathematical Sciences (Data Science) from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Cameroon. He is experienced in applying machine learning, deep learning, statistical modelling and data analytics to real-world problems, with a strong interest in developing practical and reliable AI solutions for complex data and interdisciplinary applications.
Pierre Ferdinand Bissi Nyandou
Head of Research and Innovation
Pierre Ferdinand Bissi Nyandou holds a Master's in Data Science from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), earned as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Materials Science. His academic and research experience spans computational methods, scientific modelling and data-driven approaches, with several peer-reviewed publications in materials research. He is experienced in AI, machine learning, statistical analysis, data visualisation and data storytelling, with proficiency in Python, R, SQL and Power BI. He brings a strong research orientation to data science, combined with extensive experience in tutoring, mentoring and technical instruction.
Ayanda Khumalo
Head of Technology and Operations
Ayanda Khumalo holds a BSc in Mathematics and Physics with postgraduate training in Data Science at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS). He has a strong foundation in Physics, Mathematics, Statistics, Numerical Methods, Optimisation and Mathematical Modelling, complemented by practical experience in data analysis and computational methods. He brings research experience in computational and quantitative modelling, alongside leadership experience through academic and student society activities.
Priscilla Arhin
Head of Marketing and Community Engagement
Priscilla Arhin is a data science professional with a background in mathematics, statistics and analytics. Her interests include machine learning, optimisation and healthcare analytics. As a Graduate Tutor at ADA Global Academy, she is committed to making data concepts practical and accessible to learners at every level, and she leads the Academy's outreach to prospective learners across the continent.
Prince Koomson
Head of Partnerships and Business Development
Prince Koomson is an Actuarial Science graduate with First Class Honours from the University of Cape Coast and an MSc in Mathematical Sciences (Data Science) with Distinction from AIMS Cameroon. He was awarded Best Actuarial Science Graduating Student and Best Statistics Graduating Student at UCC, alongside multiple Dean's Awards for Academic Excellence. He is skilled in actuarial modelling, statistical analysis, machine learning and predictive analytics, and brings sector knowledge in insurance, pensions, health analytics and financial risk management.
Jessica Sey Nigre
Research Associate
Jessica Sey Nigre is a Data Scientist with an academic foundation in Actuarial Science and advanced training in Data Science. She has a strong grounding in statistics, mathematics and computational methods, with a growing focus on using data and artificial intelligence to understand complex problems and support informed decision making. She is committed to continuous learning, innovation and the application of analytical thinking to real-world challenges.
Building Africa's Data Science Future
Our team combines academic excellence, practical expertise and a passion for teaching to equip the next generation of data scientists, analysts and AI professionals with skills that create meaningful impact.