Alemu Bekele Firisa
Email: firisaalemubekele@gmail.com
Phone: +251916666257
Address: 1 Jamo frist door, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia, Post Code 1000
Email: firisaalemubekele@gmail.com
Phone: +251916666257
Address: 1 Jamo frist door, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia, Post Code 1000
Hi, I'm Alemu Bekele Firisa, a computer scientist with a keen interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP). I earned my degree in Computer Science from Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology University in India, graduating with honors. My research is centered around using AI and NLP to solve challenges related to linguistic and cultural diversity, especially in African languages. I'm passionate about using technology to preserve and promote the rich variety of languages we have. Outside of my studies, I've always been involved in community work. I spent seven years volunteering with the St. Aresema Volunteer Association, where I supported various humanitarian and community projects. In terms of technical experience, I’ve worked on several exciting projects and internships, such as: Creating web applications, including a social media login page and a weather forecasting app, during my internship at Code Clause. Developing Java applications like a number guessing game and a student grade calculator at my internship with Code Soft. Conducting research on dialect identification and text summarization for Afaan Oromo, which resulted in a published paper. I've also taken part in specialized workshops like Applied Python II and volunteered with the Art of Giving Volunteer Organization for three years, contributing to their charitable efforts. I'm always looking for opportunities to learn, collaborate, and contribute to meaningful projects that make a difference in both technology and society.
Have recently published my first research paper and contributed a book chapter. Our book, Applying AI-Based Tools and Technologies Towards Revitalization of Indigenous and Endangered Languages, discusses how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) can play a significant role in preserving endangered languages. In my chapter, "Dialect Identification of Gondar, Gojjami, and Showa Dialects of Amharic Using AI and NLP,", I focused on using AI and NLP to identify and distinguish the various dialects of Amharic, particularly the Gondar, Gojjami, and Showa dialects. This research aims to shed light on the unique linguistic features of these dialects and how technology can help keep them alive. I am deeply grateful for the support I received throughout this journey, and I believe this technology has the potential to preserve and revitalize important aspects of cultural heritage. This work was published with Springer, and it feels incredibly rewarding to contribute to the field in such a meaningful way. https://lnkd.in/gwBr7PVQ
In my second research paper, title"Text Summarization for Afan Oromo Using NLP and Network Analysis Techniques" I explore a methodology for summarizing texts in Afaan Oromo using a combination of Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques and graph-based algorithms. The approach we developed involves several steps: Tokenizing sentences to break the text into manageable pieces. Preprocessing the data, which includes removing stopwords and non-alphanumeric characters. Constructing a similarity matrix using TF-IDF vectorization to measure the relevance of words in the text. We then apply the TextRank algorithm, a graph-based ranking model, to rank sentences based on their importance. Finally, the top-ranked sentences are selected to create a coherent summary of the text. We demonstrated the effectiveness of this methodology using a dataset of texts in Afaan Oromo, proving its potential to improve information retrieval and understanding for texts in this language. The implementation of this approach uses the NLTK and NetworkX libraries, ensuring that the summarization process is both efficient and accurate. Our results show the importance of integrating linguistic preprocessing with advanced graph algorithms to overcome the challenges of working with low-resource languages like Afaan Oromo.
I completed my secondary education at Awash Melka Secondary School, where I achieved a high GPA. Following this, I passed preparatory school and joined the Natural Science department. Initially, my plan was to study pharmacy in hopes of securing a scholarship in India. However, after careful consideration, I made the decision to pursue Computer Science, which has always been my true passion and dream field.
Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology University, India Graduated: May 2024, During my undergraduate studies at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), I acquired a comprehensive understanding of computer science concepts, including software development, algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. My coursework, hands-on projects, and research experiences in Natural Language Processing (NLP) have allowed me to hone my skills in applying technology to solve real-world problems. I have also developed a passion for leveraging technology to address linguistic and cultural challenges, which was reflected in my research work on AI-based tools for language revitalization. Throughout my time at KIIT, I participated in various tech-related workshops and internships, gaining practical experience and strengthening my technical skills. I collaborated on several innovative projects, further solidifying my dedication to contributing to the field of computer science and technology.
Completed during an internship with CodeSoft. During this time, I developed a Number Gaming app, Student Grade Calculator, ATM Interface app, and Quiz app with Timer using a Java programming system.
Completed during this internship with CodeClause. I developed three different web applications: a Weather Forecasting web app, different social media login pages, and a File Sharing web app with a link.
Workshop on Applied Python-II, organized by the School of Computer Applications, KIIT University.
The two-week summer school on Recent Trends in Speech Processing and its Applications, organized by the School of Computer Applications, KIIT University.
By joining the Art of Giving, I have demonstrated a commitment to spreading peace and happiness, cultivating compassion and humanity, and making a positive difference in the world. As a member, I have pledged to give selflessly to those in need, celebrate diversity, and encourage others to join this movement.
