South Africa has launched its first artificial intelligence (AI) teaching robot, which the government says will transform education and help pupils and teachers excel in the classroom.
Deputy minister of science, technology and innovation Nomalungelo Gina unveiled IRIS in Durban on Tuesday night, describing it as a breakthrough that would “enable learners to reach their full potential.”
The AI-powered robot can master all subjects from Grade R to tertiary level and communicate in 11 of the country's official languages.
“This will not only be used to teach children at school, but it will also inspire them to become familiar with technology, especially in rural areas,” said Gina.
IRIS was developed by BSG Technologies, founded by Thandoh Gumede from KwaMnqobokazi in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal. Gumede came up with the idea while teaching maths and science at a local school, where she struggled with challenges in the classroom.
Unlike text-based AI tools, IRIS responds to prompts through voice. It comes with multilingual software and a keyboard, designed to make learning interactive.
Gumede, who has won international awards for digital innovation and was crowned Miss Tech Universe 2024-2025 in Thailand, stated that she aimed for IRIS to reach every classroom by the end of October.
“IRIS does not belong to me. It belongs to everyone of us in South Africa, and that is the reason we need partnerships to be able to do that,” she said.
She stressed that the robot would not replace teachers but rather strengthen the classroom experience. “IRIS will enhance learning and teaching in South Africa, and help to close the educational gaps in the country, particularly in maths, science and technology.”
Gina urged women and young people to take advantage of government funding for innovation. “Women must lead in shaping the future of science, innovation and fields like AI. These are the skills that will drive tomorrow’s economy, and they require contributions from both men and women.”
The launch featured a live demonstration, where pupils put the robot to the test. Suhani Singh, a pupil at Reddam House Ballito, asked IRIS to explain the depreciation method in accounting. To the amusement of the audience, the robot not only broke down the concept but also illustrated it with examples.
Education officials emphasised that teachers would be trained to work alongside the technology. “Technology is not here to replace teachers, but rather innovations like IRIS will be part and parcel of the future of teaching and learning,” said Mbongiseni Mazibuko, deputy director-general for curriculum management and delivery at the provincial department of education.
“While it will be some time before IRIS can reach every classroom in South Africa, the innovation demonstrates how youth, with the proper support, can contribute to the country's growth and development,” said the department.
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