Optimising AI with Retrieval Augmented Generation – Practical Insights from Building AI Tutors

Large Language Models (LLMs) are powerful, but they often hallucinate when accuracy is critical. Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) is emerging as the leading technique to ground LLM responses in reliable, domain-specific knowledge.

In this workshop, I’ll guide participants through the fundamentals of RAG (vector RAG & graph RAG); I'll demonstrate real-world implementations; and show optimisation techniques to improve response accuracy, consistency, and trustworthiness (Reranking, Caching, & RAG System Evaluation). Drawing from my experience building AI Teaching Assistants at Zindua School, I’ll extend these lessons to high-stakes fields like Education, Medicine, and Law – where precision matters most.

Big Data Engineering with Python and Apache Spark

This workshop will introduce the concept of Big Data in modern organisations: how it is generated, how it is stored, and how to design these data pipelines that serve real-world data to Data Scientists and Data Analysts who would then build Machine Learning models, analytics dashboards or make real-time prediction from the data. We'll explore tools such as Apache Hadoop, Apache Spark, and Apache Kafka, and more importantly the role of Python in Big Data Engineering.

AI Assistants for Work – Building Agentic Systems for Enterprise

This interactive workshop introduces participants to **AI agents** i.e. ****intelligent digital assistants that don’t just provide answers, but take action across enterprise systems. The session blends demonstrations, case studies, and group exercises to help participants reimagine how AI can automate tasks, improve decision-making, and unlock productivity inside their companies.

Participants will leave with:

- A clear understanding of what AI agents are and how they differ from typical AI chat apps
- Knowledge of core techniques for building and optimising agents i.e. Prompt Engineering, Tool Calling (MCP), Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), and Model Fine-Tuning
- Real-world examples of AI agents in Enterprise: HR, Finance, Sales, Customer Support

Beyond the workshop, participant will get a practical **“Agent Implementation Canvas”** for designing their own workplace assistant as well as open-source solutions for building agents

Semi-technical workshop focused on AI agents for enterprise during the Afrinovation Festival