Bishop’s University
A photo of Abass Zakari, a young man in a light blue collared-shirt. He's standing in the Hamilton hallway with his hands clasped in front of him.

Graduate Student, Abass Zakari M.Sc (25’): Computer Science Program at B.U.

Driven by a genuine desire to learn more, Abass Zakari pursued graduate studies after completing his bachelor’s degree in Ghana. He chose Bishop’s University because of its small, close-knit community and the strong research experience of its professors in the field of Computer Science. From the very beginning, he felt that Bishop’s offered the right environment to grow and develop practical research skills.

He joined the M.Sc. in Computer Science program under the supervision of Dr. Russell Butler, whose work focuses on a mix of computer science and neuroscience. Meeting Dr. Butler strengthened Abbas’s long-standing interest in research and Computer Science. He was inspired by Dr. Butler’s dedication and commitment to advancing work in this multidisciplinary field, and throughout his studies, Abass received guidance and encouragement that fueled his own research journey.

Abass believes research should make a real difference in people’s lives. That’s why he chose to work on a project that connects the human brain to technology in a meaningful way. He is developing a system that uses artificial intelligence to study brain activity through a safe and non-invasive method called EEG (electroencephalography). EEG records the brain’s electrical signals using sensors placed on the scalp. By analyzing these signals, his project aims to detect when a person intends to move by simply reading their brain activity.

Imagine a world where someone living with paralysis can control a wheelchair using only their thoughts. Imagine someone who has lost the ability to speak being able to communicate again. Brain–computer interface (BCI) technology makes this possible. BCIs allow people to control external devices directly with their brain signals, without needing to move their muscles. The need for this technology is urgent. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 billion people worldwide, about 15% of the global population, live with some form of disability. In Canada, a 2022 survey reported that 27% of Canadians have disabilities that affect their daily lives. These numbers highlight the importance of developing tools that can improve independence and quality of life

Abass’s project focuses on improving how accurately we can detect intended movements from EEG brain signals. The better this detection becomes, the more reliable and powerful BCI systems can be. With improved BCIs, people with severe injuries or disabilities could control prosthetic limbs with precision, such as holding delicate objects like an egg, or operate a wheelchair using only their thoughts. This technology does more than restore movement. It restores autonomy, dignity, and connection to the world. Beyond helping people with disabilities, BCIs could also expand human abilities in the future. For example, it could support the development of advanced or augmented limbs that enhance multitasking and productivity. In short, BCIs are not just medical tools but they are technologies of empowerment and progress, helping bridge the gap between the human brain and machines.

During his time at Bishop’s, he also developed essential research skills, from defining objectives and conducting precise experiments to analyzing results critically, while learning that strong project management was key to success. At the same time, Abass recognized the importance of balance. By managing his time carefully, he maintained space for both his studies and other aspects of life.  Looking back, he feels that his graduate experience at Bishop’s gave him the foundation to continue pursuing research and the confidence to contribute positively to society through his future work.

The Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer Science offers advanced graduate training across core areas of computer science, including systems, security, theory, software, and artificial intelligence. Students pursue one of three pathways—Thesis, Project, or Internship—supporting research-focused, applied academic, or work-integrated professional preparation. For more information, visit our program page here.

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Joannie St-Germain B.Sc. ’16, M.Sc. (she/her/elle)
RESEARCH OFFICER
OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND GRADUATE STUDIES
819-822-9600 x 2242

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