Nigerian researcher develops AI tool for currency recognition

Maryam Alka, a PhD researcher in Applied Mathematics at the University of Birmingham, has developed a mobile-friendly artificial intelligence system capable of identifying Nigerian Naira banknotes under real-world conditions. In a statement shared with Daily Trust, she said the system, which is freely accessible online, can recognise all eight Naira denominations even when notes are […]

Maryam Alka, a PhD researcher in Applied Mathematics at the University of Birmingham, has developed a mobile-friendly artificial intelligence system capable of identifying Nigerian Naira banknotes under real-world conditions.

In a statement shared with Daily Trust, she said the system, which is freely accessible online, can recognise all eight Naira denominations even when notes are worn, poorly lit, partially covered or photographed at difficult angles.

“This achievement highlights the development of a mobile-friendly AI system for African currency recognition, designed specifically for use in real-world and resource-constrained environments.”

Her work focuses on applying artificial intelligence to solve practical challenges.

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“The system has potential applications in financial services, accessibility tools for visually impaired users, and environments where reliable currency recognition is essential. Alongside her doctoral research in mathematical modelling of tumour dynamics and cancer treatment response, she has developed a range of applied AI projects aimed at addressing real-world problems, particularly in African contexts.

“I am grateful that the project has attracted recognition from the global AI community, with support from Dr Shamsuddeen Hassan Muhammad, a Google DeepMind Academic Fellow and Advanced Research Fellow at Imperial College London, who contributed to the research.”

She went on to state that she developed the system as part of her broader vision to build accessible, real-world technologies and make them publicly available.”

“The live demonstration and full code are accessible online, allowing users to test and interact with the system directly.