UH Hilo’s friendly AI chatbot guides students, boosts engagement, provides support
UH Hilo’s chatbot “Lehua” is a friendly presence that checks in and helps students feel supported, especially when challenges arise.
The University of Hawaiʻi is expanding its use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to support students across the entire system. By the end of fall 2025, all 10 UH campuses will have launched their own student-success chatbots.
The five-year, $1.8-million contract with education technology company EdSights provides each campus with a proactive AI chatbot designed to check in with students, connect them to resources and provide valuable insights into student needs. The initiative is part of UH’s broader Student Success strategy to create a “common standard of care” for all students, regardless of campus.
Unlike traditional chatbots that simply answer questions, the EdSights platform initiates regular conversations with students at key points in the semester. For example, during the first week of classes, a bot may text: “How are you feeling about the start of the semester?” Student responses trigger tailored follow-ups, helping to pinpoint issues such as financial aid, housing, time management or mental health. Students are then connected directly to the appropriate support service on their campus.
98% of UH Hilo students, whose chatbot is named Lehua, are participating
Opt-in rates have been very high: about 93% of UH Mānoa students and 98% of UH Hilo students, whose chatbot is named Lehua, are participating.
“At UH Hilo, our students have already embraced Lehua,” says Chancellor Bonnie Irwin. “She’s become a friendly presence that checks in and helps students feel supported, especially when challenges arise.”
The initiative also provides UH with systemwide and campus-specific data, allowing leaders to identify both localized challenges and broader trends.
Other UH campuses across the state launched their chatbots in August, including Honolulu Community College, Kapiʻolani Community College, and UH Maui College.
As each campus rolls out its own chatbot, the UH System is also investing in more technology to enhance student engagement, belonging, and persistence to graduation across the state.
Read full story at UH System News.
