Beyond the classroom, AI is also improving accessibility. Tools such as speech recognition, text-to-speech, translation features and adaptive interfaces support learners with disabilities and multilingual students.
AI presents practical advantages for a country facing infrastructure inequality, resource constraints, and large learner–teacher ratios. AI-powered digital platforms can help widen access to learning materials for students in remote or underserved areas. Personalised learning tools can supplement overcrowded classrooms, while intelligent tutoring systems support learners beyond school hours.
Van Greunen emphasises that equitable access is the deciding factor. “AI can improve education quality at scale, but only if the schools with the least resources are not left behind. Connectivity, infrastructure, and device access are essential to ensuring AI doesn’t widen the gap between well-resourced and under-resourced schools.”
This aligns with global findings that the digital divide remains one of the largest barriers to equitable AI adoption.
As AI becomes more visible in education, global bodies such as UNESCO are urging system-wide responses to ensure safe, fair, and inclusive use. Key concerns include data privacy, algorithmic bias, academic integrity, and equitable access = all of which require dedicated planning and strong governance frameworks.
Schools also face questions around the role of educators in an AI-driven environment. AI will handle more routine tasks, but teachers will continue to guide students through complex thinking, emotional development, problem-solving, collaboration, and other skills no machine can replace.
“Ethical governance is non-negotiable,” says Van Greunen. “Students need to understand not only how to use AI, but how to question it. We must teach responsible use, transparency, and an understanding of where AI can get things wrong.”
This focus on education-led digital design is not new. In the financial services sector, Helm currently works with Capitec on MoneyUp Chat, an automated digital assistant designed to improve financial literacy and guide customers through complex money decisions. While not technically AI-driven, the initiative demonstrates how well-designed automated tools can support learning, build confidence, and influence positive behaviour at scale, principles that are increasingly relevant as education systems introduce AI-enabled technologies.
To unlock the full benefits of AI, van Greunen recommends three priorities:
- improving digital infrastructure and affordability,
- establishing clear ethical guidelines for AI in schools, specifically to assist administrators and teachers
- offering continuous training for teachers,
“AI can accelerate progress toward high-quality, inclusive education,” says van Greunen. “If we approach this thoughtfully, South Africa can build a more equitable future, one in which every learner will benefit from the opportunities AI makes possible.”
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