Najeeb G. Abdulhamid
Researcher
About
Najeeb G. Abdulhamid is an ethnographic researcher at Microsoft Research Africa (MSR Africa), based in Nairobi, Kenya. His work is dedicated to understanding how people interact with technology and leveraging these insights to develop actionable design solutions that empower workers.
Najeeb earned his PhD in Computer Science from Brunel University (opens in new tab), London, and holds an MSc in Information Systems from the University of Aberdeen (opens in new tab), Scotland, UK. His academic journey has equipped him with a profound understanding of the technological landscape.
With research interests that encompass Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer-Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW), and Crisis-Informatics, Najeeb is at the forefront of exploring the intersection of technology and human behavior. He is currently spearheading a project on Modern Work and AI, investigating the practical applications of Generative AI (GenAI) technologies in Africa and their impact on labor dynamics. This project’s insights significantly contributed to the Microsoft New Future of Work Report 2023 (opens in new tab), garnering commendations from Jaime Teevan, Microsoft’s Chief Scientist and Technical Fellow.
Prior to his tenure at MSR Africa, Najeeb served as a Principal Lecturer at Jigawa State Polytechnic Dutse, Nigeria, where he imparted knowledge in Computer Science. His scholarly contributions include publications in the Journal of Web of Science, Information Development, and Lecture Notes in Computer Science, and presentations at prestigious conferences.
Najeeb’s commitment to education and mentorship led him to become a Microsoft Change Agent. Through the OpenSchool Initiative (opens in new tab), he has played a pivotal role in advancing digital skills transformation across Africa. As of March 2024, Najeeb has facilitated the training of over 100 faculty members in the responsible use of generative AI in academia. His active engagement with Africans at Microsoft and the Microsoft Garage EA Committee in Kenya further exemplifies his dedication to community development and innovation.
On the social front, Najeeb is an avid communicator and thought leader. He is active on LinkedIn (opens in new tab), Facebook (opens in new tab), Twitter (opens in new tab), and maintains a Medium blog titled ‘Najeeb’s Torch (opens in new tab)’. His writings primarily focus on IT, personal and professional growth, education, generative AI, entrepreneurship, and career guidance, reflecting his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering development in these areas.