About
Who teaches you.
School of Technology
Akhil Boddu
Full stack, AI and cloudCo-founder and software engineer
Akhil is a UCT-trained Computer Scientist with a strong foundation in full-stack engineering and applied AI. His professional background includes building and deploying AI-enhanced web applications using tools like LangChain, LangGraph, and HuggingFace. Akhil is especially passionate about the intersection of software engineering and artificial intelligence, guiding students through the complexities of creating AI-powered applications. In the classroom, he is known for breaking down complex ideas into actionable steps, ensuring learners build confidence while working on ambitious projects. His
- Full-Stack (React, Node)
- AI Agents
- LangChain
- LLM Ops
- AWS
- SQL
- MongoDB
- Python
BSc(Hons) Electrical and Computer Engineering (UCT); AWS Certified Developer
Khahliso Kgodumo
CybersecurityCybersecurity instructor
Kago Kola
Full stack and AIFull-stack developer and multimedia artist
Kago is a full-stack developer with deep expertise in React, Node.js, AWS, and database systems, as well as advanced work in AI agents and LLM Ops. With a degree from the University of Pretoria and AWS certification, he has been involved in developing scalable, cloud-based applications for diverse industries. Kago's teaching approach prioritises industry relevance and practical skills, ensuring learners can move from concept to deployment confidently. Students value his clarity in explaining complex systems and his commitment to helping each learner graduate with a strong portfolio and market-
- Full-Stack (React, Node)
- AI Agents
- LangChain
- LLM Ops
- AWS
- SQL
- MongoDB
- Python
BSc Information Science - University of Pretoria; AWS Certified Developer
Siphiwe (Jack) Themba
Data scienceData scientist and analytics engineer
Siphiwe is a mathematics graduate from the University of the Witwatersrand who transitioned into the world of data science and software development. He has worked across projects combining data analysis, machine learning, and full-stack systems, giving him a unique perspective that blends theory with application. Siphiwe's expertise includes Python, Data Analysis and engineering, SQL, and modern AI frameworks. His teaching philosophy centres on equipping students with both analytical and coding skills to thrive in data-driven roles. Learners can expect rigorous problem-solving exercises and a
- Full-Stack (React, Node)
- AI Agents
- LangChain
- LLM Ops
- AWS
- SQL
- MongoDB
- Python
University of the Witwatersrand, Bachelor's degree, Mathematics
Ketro Sithole
Data scienceData engineering and analytics professional
Ketro is a seasoned data scientist with extensive experience working across South Africa's leading financial institutions. Over the course of his career, he has contributed to advanced analytics and machine learning projects in more than three major banks, applying data-driven solutions to areas such as risk modelling, customer insights, and process automation. His expertise spans Python, SQL, and modern machine learning frameworks, with a strong emphasis on deploying models in production environments. Ketro's teaching approach bridges academic knowledge with practical industry application, en
- Python
- SQL
- MongoDB
- AWS
- LangChain
- LLM Ops
- AI Agents
- Matplotlib
University of Pretoria - Bachelor's degree, Computer Science; UCT MSc Engineering, Systems Engineering
Tinashe Matanda
CybersecurityCybersecurity instructor
Tinashe is an experienced cybersecurity analyst with a background in digital forensics and systems protection. Holding a BSc in Computer Science from the University of the People, he has worked extensively in monitoring, incident response, and forensic investigation. Beyond cybersecurity, Tinashe is skilled in full-stack development and cloud systems, giving him a rare ability to approach security from both an engineering and investigative lens. His teaching focuses on hands-on labs and applied security practices, helping students understand not only how to build systems, but also how to secur
- Full-Stack (React, Node)
- AI Agents
- LangChain
- LLM Ops
- AWS
- SQL
- MongoDB
- Python
University of the People, Bsc Computer Science
Asif Hassam
CybersecuritySoftware developer and cybersecurity expert
Asif is a seasoned full-stack engineer with expertise spanning React, Node.js, AWS, and modern AI frameworks. A graduate of the University of Cape Town with a BScEng in Electrical and Computer Engineering, he has worked on projects integrating LangChain, LLM Ops, and AI agents into production systems. Asif brings a practical, hands-on approach to teaching, focusing on helping students build scalable applications while mastering the fundamentals of AI-driven development. Learners can expect a balance of technical depth, mentorship, and real-world problem-solving strategies in his classes. Johan
- Full-Stack (React, Node)
- AI Agents
- LangChain
- LLM Ops
- AWS
- SQL
- MongoDB
- Python
BScEng Electrical and Computer Engineering (UCT); AWS Certified Developer
Questions
Questions people ask.
Who teaches Zaio's classes?
Practising software engineers, data scientists and cybersecurity specialists, named on this page with their backgrounds. Classes are live, not recorded.
Do the founders teach?
Yes. Co-founders Akhil Boddu and Asif Hassam teach in the School of Technology.
What is the difference between an instructor, a mentor and a tutor?
Instructors teach the live classes; mentors review your work and give feedback; tutors, human and AI, answer questions between classes.
Can I meet an instructor before I enrol?
Yes, at an Open Evening or a townhall.
Admissions
Learn from people who do the work.
Every programme is taught live by the faculty above, with mentor support between classes.
- QCTO-accredited Occupational Certificates
- Live online, with hubs in Cape Town and Durban
- Tuition from R19,950 upfront, or R1,950 a month financed