SA Unveils First AI Robot IRIS to Transform Education and Empower Learners

Developed by BSG Technologies, IRIS is the brainchild of Thandoh Gumede, a young innovator from KwaMnqobokazi in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal.

South Africa has officially launched its first artificial intelligence (AI) robot, named IRIS, a groundbreaking innovation designed to transform education and help learners reach their full potential. The launch took place in Durban on Tuesday, led by Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, who described IRIS as a game-changer for teaching and learning in the country.

A Leap Forward in Education

Developed by BSG Technologies, IRIS is the brainchild of Thandoh Gumede, a young innovator from KwaMnqobokazi in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal. The idea was born out of Gumede’s personal challenges while teaching mathematics and physical science in a local school.

Equipped with multilingual voice-based AI software and a keyboard, IRIS can master all subjects from Grade R to tertiary level, and is capable of teaching in 11 of South Africa’s official languages. Unlike most AI tools that rely on text inputs, IRIS responds through voice interaction, making it more engaging and accessible to young learners.

Deputy Minister Gina said the introduction of IRIS will particularly benefit rural schools, where learners often lack exposure to advanced technology.

“This is not just about teaching children but inspiring them to become familiar with technology. Science has no gender, no geographical specificity, and no look. Women must lead in shaping the future of innovation and fields like AI,” she said.

Women Leading in Innovation

Gumede, who is now fondly referred to as “Mamaka IRIS”, has already gained international recognition for her digital innovation skills. She won multiple international awards and was crowned Miss Tech Universe 2024–2025 in Thailand.

Her mission is to ensure that IRIS becomes a shared educational tool across South Africa, bridging the gap in subjects like mathematics, science, and technology. Gumede has committed to introducing IRIS in every classroom by October 2025, provided strong public-private partnerships can be established.

“IRIS does not belong to me. It belongs to every South African. That’s why partnerships are key in transforming teaching and learning,” Gumede said, while stressing that AI will complement, not replace, teachers.

Government Commitment to Innovation

The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) has pledged support for emerging technologies like IRIS through its Women in Technology and Innovation and Grassroots Innovation funding programmes.

Deputy Minister Gina reiterated the importance of leveraging AI within an African context, saying the continent must not only consume global technologies but also develop and lead its own innovations.

Preparing Teachers for the Future

At the launch, Mbongiseni Mazibuko, Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery in the provincial Department of Education, stressed the need to prepare teachers to embrace AI in classrooms.

“Technology is not here to replace teachers. IRIS and tools like it will be part and parcel of the future of teaching and learning. Teachers must be equipped to harness these technologies, and as a department, we embrace IRIS,” said Mazibuko.

Inspiring Learners Through AI

The launch event featured a live demonstration where IRIS answered complex questions posed by learners, impressing the audience with its speed, accuracy, and versatility. The demonstration showcased how AI can make learning interactive, multilingual, and inclusive, ensuring that no learner is left behind.

Looking Ahead

IRIS represents a bold step in South Africa’s educational journey, with the potential to bridge inequalities, empower rural communities, and strengthen STEM learning. As the project scales nationwide, it is expected to inspire a generation of learners to engage with science and technology while preparing South Africa for the demands of a knowledge-driven global economy.