How one Chevening scholar is using AI to make education more accessible

Anas is studying AI and machine learning at Imperial College London with Chevening, co-funded by TVS Motor Company.

Anas chose Chevening because its about more than studying for a master’s degree. It has connected him with experts in the UK, a global network of future leaders, and opportunities to share ideas about how technology can help solve real-world challenges.

‘I saw Chevening as the perfect catalyst to nurture my leadership skills and collaborate with like-minded emerging leaders who share a vision for societal impact.’ 

Building AI that helps people 

At Imperial, Anas is researching how AI can be used to create more personalised learning experiences.

His goal is to develop technology that supports people, rather than replaces them. For example, how can AI help teachers understand where students need extra support? How can it help us create learning tools for students who don’t have access to private tutoring?

‘My research focuses on developing safe, human-centric AI that works alongside people, not in place of them.’

Studying in the UK has also shown Anas how research can help shape wider conversations about the future of education.

During his Chevening year, he has taken part in discussions about AI and education policy, including conversations around the OECD’s Education for Flourishing and AI Literacy Framework. These experiences have helped him see how ideas developed through research can become solutions that benefit communities.

‘Those experiences allowed me to see exactly how my human-centric AI solutions can translate to the real world.’  

Learning from a global community 

The Chevening network has been one of the most valuable parts of Anas’s experience. It has helped him understand different challenges and perspectives, and think about how technology can be designed for people from all backgrounds.

‘The network has been a masterclass in global perspectives… Collaborating with scholars from diverse geographies has helped me understand how to design inclusive, cross-cultural AI solutions.’  

The Chevening community has also given Anas a sense of belonging. Celebrating festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Eid with fellow scholars, and learning about cultures from Myanmar and Thailand, have been some of the highlights of his year.

‘Most importantly, I have found a family away from home.’  

Using technology for public good

One of the highlights of Anas’s year was being admitted to the Freedom of the City of London, an honour that recognises people who contribute to society.

For Anas, the recognition strengthened his commitment to building technology that benefits everyone.

‘’Public good AI’ means creating technology that delivers real value to ordinary people, like personalised learning tools for students who can’t afford private tutors, or systems that help teachers identify where a class is struggling.’  

As a scholar co-funded by TVS Motor Company, Anas has also benefited from connections with industry experts who have helped him understand how research can be applied in the real world.

‘The consistent mentoring from the technical leads at TVS has been invaluable. They have provided the support I needed to keep a pulse on the industry while navigating complex developmental challenges in my research.’  

Looking ahead, Anas’s ambition is to ensure advances in AI benefit everyone, regardless of where they live or the opportunities available to them.  

‘I hope to leverage this industry-backed foundation to continue building AI systems that widen access to education and healthcare, ensuring no one is held back by geography, income, or lack of digital access.’  

His advice to future Chevening scholars?  

‘Channel your curiosity. The beginning and end of this journey might seem daunting, but the real magic happens in the moments in between. Trust that you have earned your place, stay open to discovery, and make the year count.’