Agentic coding with GitHub Copilot
Agentic coding with GitHub Copilot
3 December 2026, 09h30 - 17h00
General context
Are you ready to go beyond simple chat-based coding and unlock the power of structured, agentic workflows? In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to move beyond chat-based coding and design structured, agentic coding workflows. Using GitHub Copilot, you will learn to write effective prompts, leverage LLMs for multi-file coding tasks, and design workflows that plan, act, and iterate safely. You’ll also explore how to evaluate agent outputs, implement guardrails, and address important risks and governance issues. By the end of the training, you'll be able to use LLMs for structured coding tasks, design robust agentic workflows, and enhance productivity in your own projects.
- Explain key concepts and terminology related to agentic coding (agents, planning, loops, tools, guardrails)
- Describe the agent loop (goal → plan → act → observe → revise) and its implications for software development
- Summarize common failure modes and risks of coding agents
- Write effective prompts and task descriptions that guide agent behavior
- Critically review agent-generated code for correctness, maintainability, and security
- Design an end-to-end agentic workflow for a realistic coding scenario
The course features a mix of explanations, live demonstrations, and hands-on exercises, giving you the opportunity to apply LLMs to real-world coding challenges.
To follow along effectively with this course and do the exercises, you need to have a license for GitHub Copilot.
Tip: Students and teachers can apply for a free Pro license through GitHub Education.
- Basic programming experience (Python or other)
- Familiarity with chat-based LLM tools
- Familiarity with Git is advisable
- GitHub account (and license)
- VS Code
- GitHub (Copilot)
- Python and R
This course is part of a learning path Machine learning.
AI methods used
This course focuses on the application of large language models (LLMs) and agent-based AI workflows for coding tasks, including iterative planning, execution, and refinement loops. It covers practical techniques such as prompt engineering, tool use, and evaluation strategies to guide and control AI-generated outputs.
Trainers
Jolan Heyse
Jolan Heyse is a trainer at VIB specializing in artificial intelligence and data science for life sciences. He holds a master's degree and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Ghent University, where his research focused on applying AI to EEG-based epilepsy diagnosis. Before joining VIB, Jolan worked as a data scientist at AZ Delta, developing AI applications for healthcare. His expertise includes machine learning, biomedical signal processing, Large Language Models (LLMs), and translating complex algorithms into practical tools for researchers. At VIB, he designs and delivers training programs to help scientists with data-driven methods.
Bruna Piereck
Bruna Piereck is a bioinformatics trainer at VIB and ELIXIR-BE training coordinator deputy. She obtained a Master and PhD degree in Molecular Genetics, with a focus on Bioinformatics from the Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil, in 2019. During her PhD, she had the chance to collaborate with the university of Luxembourg and the McGill university in Quebec Canada for a short time. Ever since she has been involved with teaching and research and Since March 2022, she joined VIB with the mission of teaching and assist other trainers in a variety of topics.
Program
Chat-based coding: capabilities and limits
Coffee break (provided)
Essential features of Github Copilot
Lunch (provided)
Agentic control and workflow automation
Responsible use o GitHub Copilot
Coffee break (provided)
Mini-project: implement an end-to-end agentic workflow
Practical info
03 December 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
Technologiepark 75
9052 Zwijnaarde
Belgium
03 December 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
From Ghent Sint-Pieters station, you can take a bus to Technologiepark. Please check Routeplanner De Lijn for schedules.
03 December 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
Looking for a custom cycling route? Try the online cycling route planner to easily and quickly identify the fastest, safest and/or most scenic route to any destination in Ghent.
Cycling route planner
Shared bicycles:
Several providers are active in the area.
Take a look at their platforms:
- Indigo Weel Pro app
- Bluebike
- DOTT
- BOLT eBikes
- Donkey Republic
There are also some public bicycle pumps at the park.
03 December 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
There is only one entrance to Technologiepark. At the entrance, please take a ticket - Parking is only allowed in regular parking spots (for instance in front of the building) and in the parking tower. Parking alongside the roads or in other places where there is no regular parking is prohibited.