Beyond the Basics: GIS Continues Investing in Advanced Learning Technology

May 14, 2026

GIS Continues Investing in Advanced Learning Technology 

Gaborone International School (GIS) says its latest investment in new computers and tablets reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to improving the learning experience for students and ensuring its facilities remain aligned with the demands of modern education.


Over the years, the school has continued strengthening its learning environment through ongoing campus and technology development. GIS already offers one of the strongest technology infrastructures in the region, with ten dedicated computer laboratories across the campus, including specialist labs for Pre-Primary, Primary School, and High School students. The latest upgrade, which includes new computers for the High School and tablets for the Primary School, forms part of that continued investment.


The school says that while its technology facilities have long been regarded as a strength, the pace of digital advancement means that what was considered advanced only a few years ago may no longer meet the needs of today’s students. The updated technology is aimed at enhancing classroom efficiency, supporting curriculum delivery, and ensuring students are equipped for a rapidly changing digital world.


According to Hannelie Raubenheimer, Executive Head of GIS, the investment reflects the school’s commitment to future-focused learning

“At GIS, we have always prioritised providing students with access to leading facilities and learning environments, but technology evolves incredibly quickly. A computer lab that was considered excellent four years ago is simply not sufficient for the needs of students today. We therefore must continue evolving alongside the world around us to ensure our students remain equipped with the skills, tools, and confidence they need to thrive,” she said.


Raubenheimer added that technology is also transforming the quality of learning taking place in classrooms.


“Through immersive learning experiences such as virtual reality and our innovative interactive digital platforms like Advlearn, students are able to engage with concepts in far more meaningful ways. We are seeing stronger levels of participation, confidence, and academic engagement from students across the school,” she said.


Thomas Ramakgoakgoa, High School Principal at GIS, said the upgraded technology will further strengthen teaching and student outcomes.

“Modern technology plays a critical role in preparing students for higher education and the workplace. By upgrading our systems, students can work more efficiently, collaborate more effectively, and engage more deeply with practical learning experiences. We have also seen how immersive technologies can improve concentration, motivation, and overall academic performance,” he said. “In the High School, technology is most valuable when it helps learners think, create, collaborate, and solve problems more effectively. In a Cambridge environment, students need to move beyond simply knowing information. They need to apply it, analyse it, and communicate their thinking clearly. These upgrades give our teachers and learners stronger tools to support that kind of learning.”


At Primary School level, the use of tablets is aimed at enriching the classroom experience through interactive and engaging learning methods. GIS says the devices will support foundational literacy and numeracy development while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and digital confidence from an early age.


Lisedi Phuti, Head of Primary School at GIS, said the integration of tablets allows teachers to create more engaging and personalised learning experiences for students.

“Interactive technology makes learning more exciting, accessible, and meaningful for young learners. Through tablets and immersive learning opportunities, students can engage with concepts in a more hands-on and visual way, which supports deeper understanding and retention. We have seen an impressive improvement in our international benchmarking (MAP testing) results for reading after having implemented Guided Readers in Standards 1 to 3. Students become more confident, more curious, and more willing to participate in classroom activities, while also strengthening important foundational academic skills,” she said.


The investment is not simply about keeping pace with technology trends, but about building on the strong foundation already in place at GIS. By continuing to upgrade facilities and learning tools, the school aims to create an environment where students and teachers alike are empowered to thrive while preparing students with the digital fluency and adaptability needed for the future.

How AI is Changing Education Responsibly

June 26, 2026
By Andrison Muzinda: Head of Standard 7 GIS Parent: 1. Will AI replace teachers? 2. Should my child be using AI at school? These are questions I hear often from parents, and they are understandable. Artificial Intelligence is becoming part of everyday life, from the phones we use to the way we work. Naturally, parents want to know what it means for their children's education. As an educator, I have learnt that the real question is not whether children will use AI, but how schools can guide them to use it responsibly, ethically and effectively. The answer lies in a partnership that is technology working hand in hand with excellent teaching. AI is a tool, not a Replacement The best schools, like Gaborone International School, have always adapted to change while keeping children's needs at the centre. AI is not different. In my experience, the most meaningful learning still happens through strong relationships when a teacher notices a child's growth in confidence, a class discussion that sparks curiosity or a moment when a learner finally understands a difficult concept. AI cannot replace these human experiences. What it can do is help teachers personalise learning and give students more opportunities to grow. Personalised Learning One of the greatest strengths of AI is its ability to adapt learning to each child. In Gaborone International School, platforms such as AdvLearn provide learners with targeted practice and immediate feedback, helping them master concepts at their own pace. On the other hand, assessment tools like MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) allow teachers to identify strengths and areas for improvement, enabling instruction that is tailored to individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. For younger learners, AI supported Guided Readers can recommend books at the right reading level and monitor progress, helping children build confidence and develop a love of reading. As teachers, we still interpret the data, encourage learners and make professional decisions. AI simply gives us better information to support every child. Creativity and Innovation Responsible use of AI also means preparing children for the future. This is why our school introduced robotics programmes, where learners design, build and programme solutions to real-world problems while developing creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills. We also use Virtual Reality headsets to transform learning experiences. For instance, learners explore the solar system as if they are travelling through space. These immersive experiences make learning memorable and meaningful. The goal is not to impress students with technology but to deepen understanding and inspire curiosity. Ethics Matters Of course, with great opportunities come important responsibilities. Children need guidance on when and how to use AI. They must learn to think critically, verify information and understand that AI-generated content is not always accurate. At Gaborone International School, this means teaching digital citizenship alongside digital skills. Students should know that AI can help them brainstorm ideas or practise concepts, but it should never replace their own thinking, creativity or integrity. As educators, we have a duty to model responsible use and to create clear guidelines that protect learners while encouraging innovation. What Parents Can Do Parents do not need to be AI experts; instead, they should ask their children questions like: How are you using AI at school? What are you learning from using AI? Is AI helping you to think differently? These conversations teach children that technology is most powerful when paired with curiosity, good judgment, and strong values. Takeaway AI is changing education, and that change brings exciting possibilities. When used thoughtfully, tools such as AdvLearn, MAP, Guided Readers, robotics and VR can enrich learning and help children thrive. However, the heart of education remains unchanged: caring teachers, supportive families and young people who are encouraged to think, question and dream. The schools that will lead the future are not those that simply adopt the latest technology but the ones that use it responsibly, keeping children at the centre of every decision, and that is exactly the kind of future every parent wants for their child.

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