The Machine Learning and Data Engineering programme in Lapland UAS reached a significant milestone when the first engineer graduated from the program – even half a year before the calculated graduation date.


Newly graduated Bachelor of Engineering Houda Banyny, despite her quick graduation, has already managed to get a job corresponding to her field of study in Lapland, showing how great the demand is for experts in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

– The education gave me excellent preparation for working life, and I am grateful that I was able to start my career at Rovjok Oy even before I graduated, she says.

The Lapland University of Applied Sciences’ Machine Learning and Data Engineering programme is designed to meet both local and global skills needs in artificial intelligence and data analytics. Engineers graduating from English-language education are internationally competitive experts in machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies. Their skills include, for example, data analysis, algorithm development and management of large amounts of data, which makes them valuable professionals for companies that want to take their first steps in artificial intelligence solutions.

Versatile studies and strong practical skills

The content of the training programme has been both challenging and rewarding for Houda Banyni. She has completed courses in the areas of industrial artificial intelligence, IoT and automation systems, as well as data management and programming. The studies offered a balance between theory and practice. In addition, she felt that she benefited from basic mathematical studies, business skills courses, and project management instruction that complemented his technical skills.

Houda, who is of Moroccan origin, also participated in Finnish language courses, which offered not only a new linguistic challenge but also an opportunity to better integrate into Finnish life.

– Studying the Finnish language helped me to understand the local culture and make meaningful connections with people, she says.

One of the highlights of the studies was writing a thesis, where Houda investigated the application of natural language processing (NLP) to supply chain management. The thesis highlighted how advanced technologies can be used to improve the efficiency and communication of supply chains.

– The training offered the opportunity to complete a four-year degree in 3.5 years. This helped me focus on my goals and advance my career faster. The journey was not always easy, but it taught me important skills such as time management and perseverance, says Houda.

Oops! This YouTube embed is not visible because you have not accepted marketing cookies.Accept marketing cookies.

Oops! This YouTube embed is not visible because you have not accepted marketing cookies.Accept marketing cookies.

Oops! This YouTube embed is not visible because you have not accepted marketing cookies.Accept marketing cookies.

Bachelor of Engineering Houda Banyny recognizes to have “the Northern Factor” and is ready for the challenges of working life. Photo: Kenneth Karlsson

Now she is ready to move to a full-time job, where she will be able to make use of the knowledge gained during her studies.

A great opportunity for companies, too

According to senior lecturer Kenneth Karlsson, the engineers who graduate from the training offer a significant competitive advantage to Lapland companies and communities that want to participate in the revolution of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

– In addition to technical competence, the education offers the ability to understand and solve business challenges with the help of artificial intelligence, he emphasizes.

The rector of the University of Applied Sciences, Riitta Rissanen, sees the opportunities of Lapland companies in the same way. They can be pioneers in the introduction of artificial intelligence solutions, as long as they dare to invest in know-how and cooperation with local experts.

– The training program is strategically important for both regional and international goals.

In addition, the Machine Learning and Data Engineering training is inclusive and equal. students come from many different countries, and it offers equal opportunities to all participants, regardless of background. Equality can be seen not only in the structures of education but also in the cooperation between students and teachers.

Oops! This YouTube embed is not visible because you have not accepted marketing cookies.Accept marketing cookies.

Oops! This YouTube embed is not visible because you have not accepted marketing cookies.Accept marketing cookies.

Oops! This YouTube embed is not visible because you have not accepted marketing cookies.Accept marketing cookies.

Rector Riitta Rissanen hands the diploma to Houda Banyny in a joint graduation discussion with director Hannu Kähkölä. Photo: Kenneth Karlsson