South Africa’s Independent Institute of Education (IIE), the country’s largest private higher education provider, has launched a major tech-driven learning initiative in partnership with Brightspace, the AI-powered learning platform from D2L.
The rollout, the largest of its kind in South Africa, will benefit more than 65,000 students across IIE’s tertiary institutions and its Evolve Online School. Brightspace integrates AI, interactive tools, and data-driven features to deliver an intuitive and customizable learning experience.
Louise Wiseman, managing director of IIE’s Varsity College, Vega, and IIE MSA, said the platform reflects the institution’s push toward innovation and student-centric design. The system will be applied across more than 130 academic programs.
Dr. Mario Landman, head of education technology at IIE, said Brightspace was selected after rigorous evaluation. “Its advanced tools and collaborative features align with our vision for future-focused learning,” he said.
D2L’s Stewart Watts added, “The IIE is a standout example of a learning provider embracing adaptive and digital learning to improve outcomes.”
AI Use Raises Policy Questions in Higher Education
Meanwhile, concerns are rising over how AI is used by students in South African universities. Durban University of Technology lecturer Siphumelele Zondi called for clear policies that balance academic integrity with responsible AI use.
“Right now, it’s often treated as plagiarism,” Zondi said. He suggested students could use AI for ideation but should complete assignments independently. He also warned of AI’s tendency to fabricate information.
“There’s a real risk that students could graduate without fully understanding their subject matter,” he cautioned, noting the implications for professional fields where real-world knowledge is critical.
