A KADOMA-BASED elite school has received international recognition at an educational summit in Dubai for its innovative teaching and learning practices following the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) application for its learners.
Makseth International became the first African school to get the “Innovation in Teaching and Learning Practices” prize at the World Education Summit 2026 held in Dubai last week.
It was recognised alongside leading institutions from the United States and Japan.
The accolade places the Zimbabwean institution on the global education innovation map, highlighting the growing role of African schools in shaping AI-driven learning and redefining classroom experiences through technology.
The 35th Elets World Education Summit 2026 focused on transforming education through digital innovation, artificial intelligence integration and global collaboration, bringing together educators, policymakers and EdTech leaders to shape future-ready learning and enhance employability.
“We are deeply honoured and delighted to have been recognised at the World Education Summit held last week in Dubai,” said Makseth principal, Talent Bako.
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“This award is a powerful affirmation of our school’s commitment to innovation, excellence and forward-thinking education.”
The cutting-edge application devised by the school allows students to be self-taught, especially in areas like mathematics, where it provides not only the answer but also the method used to arrive at it.
The recognition has opened doors to international partnerships, with universities from Los Angeles, the United Kingdom, India and the United Arab Emirates expressing interest in offering scholarships to the school’s Advanced Level pupils.
“Being part of such a prestigious global platform has not only been inspiring but also reaffirming, as it allows us to share ideas, learn from international peers and contribute to shaping the future of education,” Bako said.
“We will remain committed to raising standards through technology-driven and globally-aligned learning for our students.”
The school's achievement in developing an AI application marks a significant milestone that will not only benefit its pupils but also the country and continent.
The school’s chief executive officer, Emmanuel Bako, said the award underscored Makseth’s pioneering role in AI-driven education.
“The reason they considered us is because of our innovation in enhancing AI,” Emmanuel said.
“I was very grateful to be called the first African school to be recognised at a world conference.”
Since opening its doors to the public in January 2024, Makseth has set a high standard for holistic education by facilitating educational and sporting exchange programmes with renowned international clubs.
In November last year, the school organised a friendly tournament with ISM Dubai and participated in a tennis competition, where one of its pupils, Theophilous Tizora, won a prize.
According to Bako, the Dubai trip was part of the school’s plan to provide pupils with international exposure and enhance their cultural awareness, which is critical for their personal growth.
Such experiences, Bako said, would inspire students to think beyond their classrooms, fostering ambition and creativity.
In August last year, Makseth also made history when its student, then Grade 5 pupil Nonsikelelo Ncube, secured a top 10 spot at the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) BaulHouse debate competition held in South Africa.
The pupil ranked fifth among participants from southern Africa at the competition in Johannesburg, where four additional pupils made it to the top 20 out of over 300 students from various Sadc countries, including Zambia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana.
Makseth has been recognised for prioritising international exposure and extracurricular activities to equip its students for both academic success and a life rich with opportunities and challenges.
“By striving to bridge the educational gap between the first and third worlds, Makseth is paving the way for a more inclusive and advanced global education system,” Bako said.