During their stay, both worked on AI-related projects in manufacturing. Deividas’ team focused on detecting car batteries using the YOLO algorithm (You Only Look Once), a real-time object detection system, while Justinas contributed to developing an AI tool for recognising the positioning of automotive batteries. Both projects required precise data preparation, which, as Deividas notes, “can be time-consuming but is essential for effective results.”
Cultural and Academic Insights
Immersing themselves in Finnish culture, both students quickly adapted to their new environment. Deividas appreciated the helpfulness of locals, emphasising the ease of communication, as English is widely spoken. For Justinas, the cultural differences, such as the Finnish tradition of drinking milk with meals, offered an intriguing glimpse into daily life.
“We should not underestimate ourselves. There is an abundance of information available across various AI modules, and we have the tools to explore and experiment with them independently,” he notes.
Justinas observed that, despite the university being quieter in July with fewer students and professors around, those present demonstrated how adaptable AI tools could be: “Even a small and relatively simple tool can make significant progress in a project.”
Skills Development and Recommendations
The fellowship proved invaluable in developing both technical and transferable skills. Deividas focused on mastering the YOLO algorithm and understanding the importance of avoiding biases in datasets, while Justinas honed his communication and problem-solving abilities. “I also became better at time management and adapting to new environments,” says Justinas.
Justinas highlighted the cultural exposure and knowledge exchange as key benefits, advising future participants to embrace the opportunity to broaden their understanding of AI in practice: “It is a terrific opportunity to experience different cultures and gain valuable insights from people in the field.”
The Artificial Intelligence Fellowships programme not only allowed Deividas and Justinas to deepen their expertise in AI but also enriched their academic and personal growth. Their experiences underscore the value of international collaboration and hands-on learning in shaping a global perspective on AI.
