Gaming enthusiast, Mr Michael Waltham, graduated cum laude with a Master in Science in Computer Science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
His research was undertaken within the Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research (CAIR) in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science. CAIR is a network of artificial intelligence (AI) researchers based across several universities in South Africa.
‘A computer science degree provided me with the means to develop games for both industry and personal purposes. Graduating gave me the opportunity to advance in a field that I find extremely interesting such as software development,’ said Waltham.
He said at the beginning of his studies he had difficulty learning to adapt to new concepts. ‘Pushing through these challenges helped me develop my learning capabilities which helped me overcome these struggles’.
Waltham said advancing through the early years of study is probably the toughest part about a degree. ‘It is a really rewarding feeling when you become comfortable in your field and are able to push your knowledge and skills further’.
Waltham attributed his success to his own perseverance as well as the assistance and guidance from his lecturers and supervisors, Deshen Moodley and Anban Pillay.
Waltham’s supervisor, Anban Pillay, said: ‘Mr Waltham’s hard work and diligence throughout his undergraduate and postgraduate studies have been richly rewarded. He produced excellent work that was commended by his thesis examiners. The School is justifiably proud of his achievements and we trust that his perseverance and dedication to his studies will serve as an inspiration to present and future Computer Science students.’
Waltham is currently working at a simulation company specialising in ground based systems in the military, mining and transport market segments. He plans to further his knowledge in the field to be able to advance in his career.
Words: Zolile Duma