Dina Khadka is a student in the Engineering Responsible AI Systems master degree programme at IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences. Originally from Nepal, she chose IMC Krems to pursue her academic goals in an international environment and to specialise in a rapidly evolving field.
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Driving innovation through responsible AI
“Receiving the Erhard Busek Scholarship made it possible for me to pursue my studies and motivated me to make the most of this opportunity,” Dina says. Coming from a financially modest family background, this support plays a key role in her educational journey. At the same time, the opportunity to study in a diverse, international setting was an important factor in her decision. The focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) particularly appealed to her, as she aims to contribute to meaningful technological solutions with real-world impact.
Combining theory and practice in Responsible AI studies
At IMC Krems, Dina especially values the strong connection between theory and practice. The programme combines both elements, enabling students to apply their knowledge directly to real-world challenges. This approach not only makes learning more engaging but also provides valuable insights into how AI can be used responsibly in different contexts.
The well-structured schedule further supports students in their daily lives. Classes are organised to help manage workloads efficiently, while online lectures on Fridays reduce commuting time and offer greater flexibility for studying or working part-time. Timetables and course information are communicated in advance, supporting effective planning and contributing to a balanced study experience.
What responsible AI means in practice
“For me, responsible AI means developing systems that are ethical, transparent and beneficial for society,” she emphasises. This perspective reflects the growing importance of social responsibility in the field of Artificial Intelligence, where technologies increasingly influence decisions that affect people’s lives.
A key example is the use of AI in healthcare, such as disease prediction models. These systems must be trained on diverse and reliable datasets to ensure fair and accurate outcomes for different populations. Addressing these challenges is a central part of the programme and shapes how students approach the development of AI solutions.
Studying in Austria: an environment for growth
For Dina, studying in Austria offers more than just academic opportunities. The country’s high-quality education system, strong work-life balance and safe, supportive environment create ideal conditions for international students. At the same time, living abroad allows her to experience a new culture while building her academic and professional future.
Krems provides a particularly suitable setting for this journey. Surrounded by nature and the Danube River, the city offers a calm and focused atmosphere that supports studying while still providing opportunities to explore and enjoy the region.
Challenges and personal growth during her studies
Starting her studies in a new country also came with challenges. Adapting to a different academic system and building a new social environment required time and effort. However, with the support of lecturers and fellow students, Dina gradually gained confidence and successfully adapted to her new surroundings.
Working on projects, exploring new AI concepts and collaborating with classmates from different countries have been among the most valuable experiences during her studies. These moments have not only strengthened her technical skills but also contributed significantly to her personal development.
In her free time, Dina enjoys exploring new places in Austria, learning about emerging technologies and working on AI and data science projects. Overall, studying at IMC Krems has helped her become more independent, confident and open to new perspectives.
Advice for future international students
Dina encourages future international students to stay curious, embrace new experiences and take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow. While studying abroad can be challenging at first, it offers valuable experiences that shape both personal and professional development.
