2026-09-05 –, Workshop Room A
Managing a database and keeping application data in sync can become complex as Python applications grow. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to use SQLAlchemy ORM to structure database interactions and build clean, maintainable Python APIs. We will use a commodity pricing API as a practical example to demonstrate how real-world systems are designed.
We’ll cover how SQLAlchemy’s Object Relational Mapper (ORM) replaces scattered raw SQL with structured Python models, making database operations more consistent and easier to manage. Participants will learn how to define ORM classes, model relationships, and work with efficient query patterns.
We will also explore SQLAlchemy’s asyncio extension to show how modern Python applications interact with databases asynchronously.
Participants will leave with practical experience building a working API and a clear understanding of how to structure database-backed Python applications using SQLAlchemy ORM.
Managing a database and keeping application data in sync with the database can be tricky as Python applications grow in complexity. In many systems, raw SQL scattered across the codebase leads to tight coupling, reduced maintainability, and inconsistent data handling.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to use SQLAlchemy ORM to simplify database interactions and structure clean, maintainable Python APIs. We will build a commodity pricing API as a practical example to demonstrate how ORM-based design works in real applications.
We’ll cover how SQLAlchemy’s Object Relational Mapper (ORM) system helps replace raw SQL with structured Python models, making database operations more readable and easier to maintain. Participants will learn how to define ORM classes that represent database tables, manage relationships between models, and work with efficient querying techniques.
We will also explore relationship-loading strategies to understand how query behavior affects performance in real systems, and how to apply SQLAlchemy’s asyncio extension in modern Python services.
By the end of this tutorial, participants will walk out having learned how to:
1. Use SQLAlchemy ORM to perform database operations in Python without relying on raw SQL
2. Design and implement ORM models that map directly to relational database tables
3.Manage database sessions and transactions correctly in real Python applications
4.Model relationships between entities and apply different relationship-loading strategies to control query behavior and performance
5. Use SQLAlchemy’s asyncio extension to build asynchronous database-backed Python services
6. Structure a complete API workflow using SQLAlchemy ORM (using a commodity pricing API as a practical example)
SQLAlchemy, ORM, Asyncio, API Design, Database Architecture, Python Performance, Backend Development.
avid Asem is a Senior Software and AI Systems Engineer with over 8 years of professional experience building scalable software and intelligent systems. He specializes in full-stack engineering, machine learning, and production-grade AI systems, with a strong focus on designing solutions that solve real-world business problems.
He has worked across multiple industries, including insurance, fintech, healthcare, and financial markets, where he has led and contributed to systems that drive operational efficiency and business transformation. Currently, David is a Senior Full Stack Engineer at Starlife Assurance Limited, where he also leads AI initiatives focused on leveraging machine learning to enhance products and decision-making processes.
In addition to his role, David works as an independent consultant, helping organizations design and implement scalable software systems and AI-driven solutions across different industries.
David is deeply passionate about the role of AI and emerging technologies in accelerating growth across Africa. His mission is to make it easier for organizations across the continent to harness the power of AI and digital technology to build, scale, and transform their businesses.
Beyond his professional work, David is an active contributor to the global and African tech ecosystem. He has spoken at major conferences and communities including PyCon Africa, Google I/O Summit USA, Google Developer Group Accra, and the Ghana Data Science Summit. He also contributes as a mentor with programs such as the Deep Learning Indaba and Google Developer Exchange Program, supporting the next generation of engineers and researchers.
He has played a key role in community building, including pioneering and leading developer groups such as the Google Developer Student Club at KNUST. David is passionate about mentorship, leadership, and knowledge sharing, and continues to impact developers and organizations through speaking, consulting, and community engagement.