OWIS Riyadh Achieves Historic Milestone
One World International School (OWIS) in Riyadh has officially been recognised as the first Apple Distinguished School (ADS) in Saudi Arabia. This prestigious status highlights the school’s integration of Apple technology across its curriculum, giving students a competitive digital advantage in an ecosystem aligned with new-age learning standards.
The Apple Distinguished School title is awarded to institutions that demonstrate innovation, leadership, and educational excellence through the effective use of Apple products such as iPads, MacBooks, Apple Pencils, and creative applications like GarageBand. These tools are used to inspire creativity, improve communication, foster critical thinking, and deliver measurable academic outcomes.
Commitment to Digital Excellence
The recognition reflects OWIS Riyadh’s long-term vision for technology-enabled education. The school’s strategy is supported by continuous professional development for teachers, ensuring staff are equipped to maximise the benefits of Apple’s ecosystem in their classrooms.
On 15 September 2025, ADS representatives Sherifa Aly, Head of Education KSA, and Dmitrii Leshchinskii, Head of Business and Education KSA, visited OWIS Riyadh to personally extend congratulations and commend the school’s achievements.
Leadership Perspective
Principal Shannon Pipes expressed pride in the recognition, stating:
“It is a validation of the school’s long-standing commitment to digital learning and student progress. We are thrilled to receive this recognition. Through adoption of a comprehensive Apple ecosystem, we are witnessing a fundamental shift in student learning and teacher instruction.”
Pipes added that being the first Apple Distinguished School in Saudi Arabia is a landmark achievement. She emphasised that OWIS will continue to build on its partnership with Apple to strengthen support for faculty and students.
“The support from Apple has helped us build a culture of innovation and digital fluency in our school. With powerful tools at hand and limitless learning ahead, our journey is just beginning.”
About OWIS and Global School Group
OWIS Riyadh is part of the Global School Group, an education network operating in 12 countries. The group has been a pioneer in EdTech, embracing personalised learning systems and advanced teaching methods to deliver future-ready education.
At OWIS, technology is more than a tool. It is an integral part of pedagogy, ensuring that students gain relevant skills for a rapidly evolving world.
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