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South African multilingual AI tutor HelloAida guides students through problems rather than solving them
HelloAida, a South African AI tutoring platform, guides students through problems step-by-step instead of giving direct answers. It covers all grades and subjects in all 11 official languages, starting at R200/month.
South African AI tutor tackles the shortcut problem in education
HelloAida, a locally built AI tutoring platform, is trying to solve a core problem facing schools: students using generative AI to skip learning and jump straight to answers.
The platform guides students through problem-solving step-by-step rather than delivering answers directly. It covers all grades and subjects across South African curricula and works in all 11 official languages used in education.
How it works
Instead of providing direct answers, HelloAida asks questions and gives explanations that push students toward independent problem-solving. The approach aims to improve retention, deepen understanding, and build critical thinking skills.
Leora Hessen, HelloAida's founder, said the platform reflects a principle: "AI should not replace thinking - it should strengthen it."
The platform is designed to feel conversational and non-judgmental rather than like traditional education software. HelloAida aims to reduce both academic and technological barriers through guided, confidence-building support.
Pricing and access
Individual subscriptions cost R200 per month. Schools can subscribe at R25 per learner per month on 24-month agreements.
Prospective users can test the platform free, asking up to 20 questions before committing.
Related: AI for Education | Generative AI and LLM