Solution Approach
Our Simple Idea: Create an AI friend that listens to us and helps us feel better without judgment.
How It Works: Students can chat privately with the AI about their problems.
Outsourced AI: We worked with developers to create the AI that understands how we talk in Kenya.
Privacy First: The AI protects our identity - no one knows who said what.
Scientific Principles
Principle 1: Confidentiality - Students feel safe to be honest when their identity is protected.
Principle 2: Accessibility - Available anytime, anywhere, unlike busy counselors.
Principle 3: Cultural Relevance - AI understands local language and expressions.
Principle 4: Safety Net - Serious problems are flagged for human counselors without revealing identity.
Demo Implementation
Student Interface:
Just like chatting with a friend - safe, private, understanding.
Supervisor Dashboard:
Counselors see problems without knowing who said them - just age ranges.
Flagging System:
If someone is really in danger, the AI tells a counselor without revealing who it is.
Research Objectives
- See if students feel more comfortable talking to AI than adults
- Test if the privacy protection works as intended
- Measure if students feel better after using the system
- Check if the AI understands local language and expressions
Methodology
- Developed concept based on student needs in Trans Nzoia
- Worked with developers to create culturally appropriate AI
- Implemented privacy protection and safety features
- Tested with students in local schools
- Collected feedback on usability and effectiveness
Supervisor Dashboard
Anonymous Monitoring:
Counselors see flagged conversations without student names.
Age Ranges Only:
Only age groups are shown, not individual identities.
Intervention Ready:
Human counselors can step in when needed, respecting privacy.