Obum Ekeke, OBE, is a trailblazer in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) education and a leading voice for diversity and inclusion in the tech sector. With over 20 years of experience in educational innovation and technology, Obum has dedicated his career to ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible to everyone, particularly individuals from underrepresented groups. His relentless efforts have earned him widespread recognition, including being awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2022 for his services to computing, AI education, and championing diversity.
As the Global Lead for University Relations and Education Partnerships at DeepMind, Obum spearheads initiatives aimed at building a more inclusive AI ecosystem. His focus is on creating equitable pathways for students from diverse backgrounds to enter the field of AI, equipping them with the skills and opportunities to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Through his work, he is reshaping the future of AI by ensuring that its development is guided by a broad range of perspectives, promoting fairness and inclusivity in its deployment.
At DeepMind, Obum leads the charge in expanding access to AI education, with a special emphasis on students from disadvantaged backgrounds. His work is deeply rooted in the belief that AI has the potential to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, but only if it is developed by people who represent the diversity of global society. “AI needs diversity of perspectives and representation from all communities to ensure it can effectively serve society,” Obum said. He sees education as the key to breaking down the barriers that have historically limited participation in the tech industry. Obum’s leadership has been instrumental in launching impactful programs, such as DeepMind’s funding of scholarships for black and female students pursuing MSc degrees in AI and machine learning. These scholarships provide financial support, mentorship, and access to global AI conferences, addressing the gender and racial disparities in postgraduate computer science programs.
In addition, Obum has been at the forefront of efforts to promote AI research among undergraduate students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Through a $1 million partnership with The Hg Foundation and the Royal Academy of Engineering, Google DeepMind is offering 120 summer research placements for engineering students in the UK. This program aims to build a more diverse AI research community by providing students from deprived areas with the skills and experiences they need to pursue careers in AI.
Before joining DeepMind, Obum spent more than a decade at Google, where he served as the Head of Computing Education Programs for the UK and Africa. In this role, he co-founded the Google Educator Groups (GEG) program, a global initiative that equips educators with the skills and tools they need to deliver high-quality education using open technologies. Today, GEG operates in over 60 countries and has helped millions of students gain access to life-changing learning experiences. Obum’s passion for education extends far beyond his professional achievements. He holds a Master’s Degree in E-Business Systems from City, University of London, and an MBA from Imperial College Business School. He is also a Trustee of UK Youth, a leading charity that empowers young people to build bright futures, and serves on the Governing Council of the University of Essex, where he continues to advocate for educational equity and access.
In recognition of his groundbreaking work in AI education and diversity, Obum has been lauded by various institutions. In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen honored him with an OBE for his contributions to computing and AI education. His efforts to champion diversity in tech have also earned him a place among the Financial Times’ list of the top 10 most influential ethnic minority leaders in the UK tech industry. Obum’s work is characterized by a deep commitment to using technology for social good. He believes that AI, when developed inclusively, has the power to significantly improve lives and solve global challenges.
