Designing Emotionally Supportive AI Tools for International Students in Higher Education

This chapter describes the potential of emotionally supportive artificial intelligence (AI) tools to complement traditional student support services in universities in Africa. International students in African higher education universities face intersecting academic, social, cultural and emotional disablers that prevailing support systems every so often struggle to overcome. Basing on affective computing, social support theory and culturally responsive pedagogy, the chapter suggests a context-sensitive AI design framework custom-made to African realities. It cross-examines global innovations, identifies regional gaps and promotes ethical, culturally grounded design principles. The chapter offers a practical and theoretical approach to improving international students' well-being, belonging and pliability through accountable AI integration in African higher education.