Akinbusola Olushola is a visionary data professional with a passion for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and data science to address complex challenges across diverse sectors, particularly in public health. His career is a testament to how innovative technology can transform industries, from optimising business processes in banking to enhancing healthcare services through data-driven solutions.

As of September 2024, Akinbusola has embarked on his professional journey as an Information Systems Analyst, using his expertise in AI and data science to drive innovation in healthcare systems. His focus is on developing AI-driven models that streamline processes, improve decision-making, and enhance system performance. With a dedication to improving healthcare access and outcomes, Akinbusola uses data science to address challenges faced by underserved populations. His work reflects his commitment to harnessing technology for the greater good, ensuring that AI contributes to societal well-being.

Akinbusola’s academic background is rooted in technology, with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Technology and a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics with a specialisation in Data Science. During his studies, he mastered programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL and developed a deep understanding of machine learning and AI techniques. His technical expertise has allowed him to lead impactful projects that bridge the gap between data and real-world solutions, particularly in public health initiatives.

Throughout his career, Akinbusola has applied his knowledge across both the private sector and public health initiatives. He has used data science to optimise business processes, and developed AI-driven models that improve healthcare access, decision-making, and patient outcomes. His work in these areas reflects his vision for using technology to positively impact society.
In public health, Akinbusola played a pivotal role in the Wastewater Surveillance for COVID-19 initiative, using AI and data analytics to monitor viral trends and support community health responses. This project showcases his dedication to leveraging AI to tackle public health challenges and highlights his commitment to improving societal well-being through innovation.

As AI continues to redefine the healthcare landscape, Akinbusola remains at the forefront of this transformation. His dedication to advancing AI-driven solutions for public health ensures that he is a key figure in shaping the future of healthcare analytics.
In this interview, Akinbusola Olushola shares his professional journey, the role of AI in his work, and his vision for the future of AI in public health. Hed also shared insights on leveraging technology to drive meaningful change and improve lives.

Can you share a bit about your early professional journey and how you developed an interest in AI, especially in applying it to the health sector?

My journey into AI began with a deep passion for technology during my undergraduate studies in Computer Science at Crawford University. I was fascinated by how computing could solve real-world problems. My interest in data science, however, was sparked by the analytical rigour I discovered early in my career. Working in banking and finance as a Business Process and Data Analyst allowed me to see firsthand how data could drive operational efficiency and mitigate risks.
This experience showed me the transformative power of data beyond finance, particularly in sectors like healthcare where data-driven insights can directly impact lives. It inspired me to pursue a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics with a specialisation in Data Science at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. My academic and professional journey, combined with real-world exposure to public health initiatives—such as the COVID-19 wastewater surveillance project—solidified my commitment to applying AI in healthcare. I believe AI can revolutionise public health through predictive analytics, personalised medicine, and resource optimisation, making healthcare more accessible and efficient.

In your opinion, how has AI transformed public health in recent years?

AI has significantly reshaped public health by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, streamlining disease surveillance, and improving health resource allocation. For example, AI-driven predictive models in epidemiology enable early detection of outbreaks by analyzing vast datasets in real time, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, AI-powered diagnostic tools, such as image recognition in radiology, have improved early cancer detection, reducing diagnostic errors and increasing survival rates.

How do you see AI contributing to disease prevention and control in the future?

AI’s role in disease prevention will expand through advanced predictive modeling, wearable health devices, and real-time data analytics. For example, wearable devices equipped with AI algorithms can monitor vital signs continuously, detecting early symptoms of chronic diseases like hypertension or diabetes. On a larger scale, AI could enhance global disease surveillance by integrating data from diverse sources, including social media and environmental sensors, allowing public health authorities to act faster and more precisely.

What ethical challenges do you think AI poses in public health?

AI in public health raises significant ethical concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and equitable access to AI-driven healthcare solutions. Ensuring that AI models are trained on diverse datasets is crucial to avoid biases that could lead to disparities in healthcare outcomes. Furthermore, robust data protection frameworks must be in place to protect sensitive health information, ensuring public trust in AI-driven public health interventions.

How can AI help reduce health inequities in underserved communities?

AI can bridge healthcare gaps in underserved communities by providing remote diagnostic services and predictive analytics to allocate resources efficiently. For example, telemedicine platforms powered by AI can diagnose diseases in remote areas, reducing the need for in-person consultations. Additionally, AI can assist in identifying social determinants of health by analyzing environmental, economic, and social data, helping public health organizations design targeted interventions.

Can you share an example where you used AI to address a public health issue?

I was involved in the Wastewater Surveillance for COVID-19 initiative, where AI models were used to analyse wastewater data and predict infection trends. This approach provided an early warning system, allowing public health officials to implement proactive measures. The project demonstrated AI’s potential in real-time monitoring and early detection, reducing the spread of the virus and saving lives.

What future AI innovations do you predict will have the most impact on public health?

I foresee AI advancements in personalised medicine and genomics revolutionising public health. AI can analyse genetic data to tailor treatments to individual patients, increasing treatment efficacy and reducing adverse effects. Additionally, AI-driven robotics and automation in hospitals will enhance operational efficiency, particularly in surgical procedures and patient monitoring, ultimately improving patient outcomes and resource management.

Conclusion
Akinbusola Olushola’s journey showcases the powerful intersection of AI, data science, and public health. His innovative work, from enhancing healthcare systems to addressing public health challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, exemplifies how technology can drive meaningful societal change. As AI continues to evolve, Akinbusola’s dedication to leveraging data-driven solutions ensures he will remain a pivotal figure in the future of healthcare and beyond. His insights inspire us to think about technology not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a catalyst for improving lives and addressing global challenges.