Artificial intelligence (AI) is a dynamic and expanding technical sector that has the potential to transform all aspects of human society. Education is not immune, and it has developed novel teaching and learning methods that are now being tested in many situations. The aim of the study is to examine the influence of AI on learners in any South African educational setting. Furthermore, it looks into how AI-powered solutions like data analytics, learning analytics, virtual tutors, and intelligent content delivery systems encourage personalization, collaborative settings, and improved learning outcomes. This is necessary to promote technological integration for transformation and educational sustainability. The research is a quantitative method of 150 participants drawn from high school teachers. Participants took an online questionnaire with questions on their understanding of the usage of AI in the classroom and how they see it altering teaching and learning practices. Data was analysed using a One-Way ANOVA. The NULL hypothesis was used to show differences between the group participants means, while the alternative hypothesis stated that at least one group participants mean is different from the others. Various applications of AI tools in education, ranging from personalized learning experiences to adaptive assessment methodologies, were examined to determine their impact on diverse learning environments. It also explored the ever-expanding AI ecosystem and understands how AI fits into the educational enterprise strategy for Sustainable Development Goal 4 which targets education. Gaining clarity on the potential and problems that AI brings in the educational arena was investigated in order to create a comprehensive picture on the ground. The results from data revealed that educational scenario in South Africa demonstrates inequities in technological use in schools as a result of the digital divide, access, and infrastructure. The literature reviewed also suggests that AI has not been widely used in South African education. The main reason points to teachers’ inadequate knowledge and abilities of how AI technologies can be used for teaching and learning. Therefore, the study recommends an AI framework focusing on personalization, sustainability education, teacher empowerment, equity, and responsible implementation that South Africa can harness to shape a brighter future for its learners.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, digital divide, personalization, sustainability, transformation.