ORT South Africa Launches Trilingual AI Study Tool

The new AI companion, Funda Nam, provides 24/7 study support to beneficiaries of the organisation’s analytics programme.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Language Learning

Gouache-painted illustration of an open journal with rising geometric data symbols, representing a multilingual AI study tool for students. — ORT South Africa has introduced Funda Nam, an AI-powered study tool designed to provide 24/7 support to big data analytics students. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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ORT South Africa has introduced Funda Nam, an artificial intelligence study companion available in English, isiZulu, and isiXhosa. The tool is designed to provide 24/7 support for students participating in the organisation's big data analytics training.

Why it matters

The tool aims to streamline self-study and reinforce knowledge gained during training, helping to build learner confidence. It provides essential support outside of physical classroom sessions for participants in the programme.

Funda Nam offers 24/7 study and work-readiness assistance to all current programme beneficiaries. The AI is trained specifically on the curriculum of the big data analytics programme.

The players

ORT South Africa

Established in 1936, this organisation provides vocational and technical training programmes across South Africa.

GAS Marketing Automation

This firm provided the technical infrastructure and engineering expertise required to build the Funda Nam study tool.

The details

Developed with infrastructure from GAS Marketing Automation, the tool allows students to interact with the training curriculum in multiple languages. It is exclusively available to individuals currently enrolled in the ORT SA big data analytics training programme.

1880: The ORT organisation was founded in Tsarist Russia.
1936: ORT South Africa commenced operations.
2024: The big data analytics programme was established.
October 2026: The Funda Nam AI tool was officially launched.

Culture Shift

This integration of artificial intelligence reflects a broader shift toward digitising educational support in South Africa. By utilising native languages in tech-focused training, the programme marks a departure from English-only study tools.

Students enrolled in the programme now have round-the-clock access to study materials in their preferred language. This shift simplifies the self-study process and provides immediate support for those navigating complex analytics coursework.

The takeaway

Using AI to bridge language gaps can significantly improve the accessibility of technical training programmes. Students should utilise the tool during their self-study hours to reinforce lessons and boost their work-readiness.