UKZN Graduate Builds AI Career Chatbot to Empower SA Youth

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BSc Computer Science and IT graduate Mr Cebolenkosi Msweli has developed a Career Path Advisor Chatbot - that assists students in exploring career options through simple, human-like conversations.

The tool was created to address a real issue - students struggling to find clear, personalised career guidance.

Msweli worked in partnership with Mr Thabo Mthethwa, also a 2024 UKZN graduate, and Mr Mthobisi Cele, a student at the Central University of Technology in the Free State. Msweli focused on the back-end and artificial intelligence (AI) integration, Mthethwa assisted with the large language model, and Cele led the user-friendly frontend design.

‘We wanted to create something that felt like a mentor and not just like reading information online; something that felt intuitive, accessible and actually useful for young people making big decisions about their futures,’ said Msweli. ‘Too many students are left to navigate career choices alone, with little guidance or tailored information.’

The chatbot gained national attention when Msweli presented it at the South African Youth in Internet Governance Forum under the theme: “Empowering Youth Career Decisions Through Ethical AI”. He used it as an example of how ethical AI can support informed youth decision-making.

‘I used our Career Path Advisor Chatbot as a case study to highlight the potential of AI in solving social challenges, especially the lack of accessible, personalised career guidance for students. I hope this project encourages a spirit of innovation and problem-solving within the UKZN student community,’ he said.

Their lecturer, Dr Mpho Mzingelwa, guided them throughout the year-long project, encouraging them to think about the social impact of their work. With the support of his team, mentor and family, Msweli is determined to keep using technology to solve real problems.

Now pursuing a BCom Honours in Information Systems and Technology, Msweli is focused on the space where technology meets business and people. He hopes the chatbot sparks more innovation among students.

‘By building something that speaks directly to student needs, we aimed to show that it’s possible to create meaningful impact with the skills we’re learning,’ he said. ‘UKZN has always fostered a culture of inspiring greatness and this project reflects an environment where students are encouraged not just to learn, but to lead, create and uplift others through their work,’ said Msweli.

Professor Upasana Singh, Academic Leader and Associate Professor in the Discipline of Information Systems and Technology who was also in attendance commented: ‘The 2025 South African Internet Governance Forum served as a vital platform for inclusive dialogue on internet policy and digital inclusion. We are especially proud of our UKZN Information Systems and Technology students, including Msweli, who showcased impactful AI innovations that support ethical, socially responsible digital development. Their work reflected not only technical excellence but also a strong commitment to addressing real-world challenges, aligning with global efforts to promote ethical technology use and youth empowerment.’

Words: Ayanda Radebe

Photograph: Supplied