Sierra Leonean Innovator Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie Pioneers South Africa's First Humanoid Robot with a $3 Dream
His robotics journey commenced with the acquisition of his first computer at 13. Intrigued by the programmability of machines, he self-taught coding through online resources and books. Engaging with local robotics clubs and competitions further fueled his burgeoning enthusiasm.
AKACHI NOEL 
Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie, a visionary Sierra Leonean, has etched his name in the annals of technological innovation in South Africa by crafting the nation's inaugural operational humanoid robot. His journey, marked by resilience and passion, commenced with a mere $3 in his pocket upon his arrival in South Africa.
Not your typical innovator, Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie's odyssey embodies courage and tenacity. The founder of the African School of Technology, he embarked on a mission to revolutionize the technological landscape, undeterred by numerous challenges. Merging self-taught expertise in artificial intelligence, robotics, and web development, Abdul Malik succeeded in developing a humanoid robot capable of speech, interaction, and task execution.
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Born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, in 1992, Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie's inquisitive nature blossomed during his upbringing in a family of six siblings. Excelling in mathematics and science at the Methodist Boys High School, he initially harbored dreams of becoming a lawyer before discovering his passion for robotics at the age of 13.
His robotics journey commenced with the acquisition of his first computer at 13. Intrigued by the programmability of machines, he self-taught coding through online resources and books. Engaging with local robotics clubs and competitions further fueled his burgeoning enthusiasm.
In pursuit of higher education in IT, Abdul Malik arrived in South Africa in 2013. Graduating with Cum Laude from Durban Computer College in 2014, he ventured to India, acquiring certifications in Oracle, Microsoft, Cisco, Ethical Hacking, and ITIL. A stint as a junior developer followed before his return to South Africa in 2017, where he founded the African School of Technology.
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The African School of Technology, Abdul Malik's brainchild, stands as a beacon for nurturing young African talent in various IT fields. Offering one-year certificates, short courses, and corporate training in web development, mobile development, data science, blockchain, AI, and robotics, the institution fosters a culture of social responsibility and human values among its students.
Simultaneously, Abdul Malik embarked on a personal project – constructing a humanoid robot from scratch. Funding the endeavor through personal savings, donations, and sponsorships, he collaborated with fellow experts and researchers to bring his vision to life.
This humanoid marvel, beyond its technological prowess, symbolizes hope and inspiration for Africans aspiring to innovate and contribute to their continent's development. Abdul Malik envisions Africa as a technology leader and actively shares his knowledge through collaborations with local institutions.
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Currently working on establishing a new School of Technology in Johannesburg, Abdul Malik engages with government officials and potential collaborators in Sierra Leone. His journey and the humanoid robot he created serve as a testament to his commitment to inspiring fellow Africans to pursue their dreams and contribute to community solutions.
