Artificial Intelligence, Strong Networks and New Perspectives: GISA at the Regional Network Conference in Cairo

From 14 to 16 September 2026, the German International School Accra took part in the Regional Network Conference of the German Schools Abroad in Region J. The conference was hosted by the Deutsche Evangelische Oberschule Cairo.

But what exactly is a Regional Network Conference? These conferences provide opportunities for collaboration and professional exchange within the worldwide network of German Schools Abroad. The schools supported by the Central Agency for German Schools Abroad (ZfA) are organised into different regions. Region J brings together German Schools Abroad from several countries in Africa and the Middle East. Despite the considerable geographical distances between them, many of these schools face similar educational, organisational and strategic challenges. The conference therefore provides a valuable opportunity to share experiences, learn from one another and develop joint solutions.

Using artificial intelligence purposefully and responsibly

This year’s conference focused on “The targeted use of AI in schools: teaching, administration and strategies”. Moderated by Fritz Helms and supported by a specialist keynote from Dr Judith Huget, participants explored how artificial intelligence can be used effectively within German Schools Abroad.

The discussions extended far beyond individual programs and technical possibilities. They addressed practical applications in teaching, language differentiation, communication, administration and school development. Further areas of focus included data protection, responsible use, the skills required by staff and students, school guidelines and the question of how individual experiences can gradually develop into shared institutional practice.

Through presentations, working groups and intensive discussions, the schools shared their experiences, compared different approaches and considered possible next steps. One conclusion became particularly clear: artificial intelligence can provide valuable support for teachers, school leadership and administration while also opening up new opportunities for learning. Responsibility for content, educational decisions and quality, however, must always remain with people.

GISA represented by School Leadership, Board and Administration

GISA was represented by Headmaster Rainer Kropp-Kurta, Beatrice Thiel on behalf of the Board and Ada Kulakowska-Harrak representing Administration. This deliberately brought together three perspectives that will be essential for the further development of a school-wide approach to artificial intelligence.

The GISA team contributed its existing experiences from teaching, communication, documentation, school leadership and school development. At the same time, the team gained numerous ideas and insights from other schools. The results will now be discussed within the Extended Leadership Team, the teaching staff, Administration and the Board. The aim is not to create a rigid master plan, but to develop a realistic and responsible process that builds upon GISA’s existing practice.

Encounters that extend beyond the conference

Personal encounters were at least as important as the formal conference programme. Regional Network Conferences provide an opportunity to maintain existing relationships and establish new connections between schools. This is particularly valuable for German Schools Abroad working across considerable distances, as these networks enable direct consultation, mutual support, joint professional development and the exchange of materials and experience.

The official programme also included a joint visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum. This provided an impressive insight into the history and culture of the host country while offering a further opportunity to continue the professional conversations begun during the conference.

The connections established in Cairo will now be continued. On 27 October 2026, the schools will meet online under the title “AI in Our School” to share interim findings, discuss support needs and consider future perspectives. This will be followed by a two-day Region J AI Conference in Addis Ababa on 25 and 26 January 2027.

For GISA, the conference was therefore much more than a professional development event. It was an important opportunity to reflect on our own experiences, gain new inspiration and build sustainable bridges towards the future together with other German Schools Abroad.