By Levy Masiteng
A robot called IRIS, which can master all subjects from Grade R to tertiary level in all 11 official languages, has been launched in Durban.
The robot is the brainchild of Thandoh Gumede, who is the founder of BSG Technologies and a former teacher. She hails from KwaMnqobokazi in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal.
Gumede said she developed IRIS after experiencing challenges while teaching maths and Physical Science at a local school.
It is equipped with software and a keyboard. It utilises deep machine learning, responds to prompts using voice commands and has a special feature of being multilingual, unlike other AI tools.
The launch was officiated by Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina in collaboration with the provincial education department.
Gina said in a statement that the project aimed to bridge educational gaps, particularly in maths, science and technology, and inspire learners to become familiar with technology.
During the launch, IRIS was put to test by answering complex questions from learners, including Suhani Singh from Reddam House Ballito.
She asked the robot to explain the depreciation method in accounting.
Much to the amusement of the audience, IRIS not only explained but illustrated the method through examples.
During the launch, IRIS left the audience in awe with its impressive capabilities.
“The launch was incredible, I’m very impressed with IRIS,” Singh said.
Gumede has won several international awards and was crowned Miss Tech Universe 2024-2025 in Thailand.
“Here at home, Ms Gumede is already taking South Africa by storm and is fondly called ‘Mamaka IRIS’,” Gina said.
The minister said 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,” she said.
Meanwhile, Gumede stressed the need for partnerships to introduce IRIS to every classroom in South Africa by the end of October this year.
“IRIS does not belong to me. It belongs to every one of us in South Africa, and that is the reason we need partnerships to be able to do that,” she said.
Gumede also quashed fears that AI would replace teachers.
“Rather, 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. We are in the process of furnishing our office spaces and manufacturing plant with all the necessary equipment needed to scale up production,” she said.
Mbongiseni Mazibuko, who is the deputy director-general for curriculum management and delivery at the KwaZulu-Natal education department, emphasised the need to equip teachers with AI skills.
“Technology is not here to replace teachers, but rather innovations like IRIS will be part and parcel of the future of teaching and learning. We need to make our teachers ready for these technologies, and as a department, we embrace IRIS,” he said.
Gina encouraged the women and youth to take advantage of the department’s funding instruments, such as the Women in Technology and Innovation and the Technology Innovation Agency’s Grassroots Innovation Programme.
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