Mentorship Sessions Ep. 6: “Verify Answers Given By AI, Don’t Just Copy and Paste ” – William Owusu Inspires

The sixth episode of the Mentorship Sessions featured William Owusu, a Software Engineer from Jupay Money Transfer with deep expertise in fintech, payments and remittances. He has a proven track record of building and scaling secure, high-performance financial systems that process millions in transactions. His session focused on how students can use emerging digital tools, including AI, to support learning, research and creativity. This formed part of the broader theme, “Tech in Our Hands: Making the Most of Digital Tools, Including AI.”

He shared that his interest in engineering began at a very early age. He recalled a moment at home when he disassembled a malfunctioning computer system unit, an experience that sparked his curiosity and made him realise his potential for fixing complex devices. This simple act became the foundation of his passion and ultimately set him on the path to becoming an engineer.

In addition to his early discovery of his interests, his parents were highly supportive; they encouraged him to ask questions and dig deeper into his curiosities. This environment significantly facilitated his early exploration and commitment to his career path. He subsequently pursued science in senior high school and continued to study Computer Engineering at the tertiary level.

“I didn’t grow up in a house where we had a lot of tech, but my family pushed me to be curious. I grew up in a home where I was encouraged to ask why things happened.” He mentioned.

He encouraged learners to embrace curiosity in any field they pursue, particularly those interested in engineering. He explained that, cultivating a problem-solving attitude and an analytical mindset provides a strong advantage, enabling deeper understanding within their chosen discipline. He stressed that individuals who excel in life are those who constantly question, explore, and seek to understand the things they observe.

Mr Owusu further urged students to take their courses seriously, noting that this commitment would enable them to grasp the essential foundational principles required for success as they progress through their academic journey.

Furthermore, he pointed out that they could ask questions and receive immediate responses from AI. He described the present as an age where any query stemming from curiosity can be definitively answered. He concluded by sharing that AI also constitutes a crucial element in how he carries out his professional responsibilities.

“You are fortunate to live in an age where any question you ask can easily be answered in any format you want.”

“AI forms a big part of my work and makes it easier. If I reject it my work will suffer, and other developers will move forward.”

Highlighting the error of over-dependence on technology, he reminded students that AI is a tool to help them gain knowledge and should therefore be used responsibly to broaden their knowledge.

“Verify answers given by AI don’t just copy and paste and have an idea of what you are expecting to hear.” He clarified.

He concluded by advising learners to cultivate curiosity and the habit of asking questions, regardless of their chosen career path. His final piece of advice stressed the need for thoroughness in the modern age.

“Whatever you are doing, be curious and persistent and never forget that intelligence is knowledge and experience”. He advised.

The 2025 edition of the STEM Festival is produced by Primetime Limited and proudly sponsored by Trustur AI, Jupay, YFM and GTP.