Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly become part of academic life around the world, by assisting students with research, writing, and learning across disciplines. In Rwanda, this momentum is backed by national policy. The government’s approval of the National AI Policy in April 2023 reaffirmed a strong commitment to integrating responsible AI use in key sectors, especially education.
At the Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK), AI has gradually become part of students’ daily academic activities, from research to creative tasks. However, the university encourages students to use it responsibly, ensuring that innovation does not replace independent thinking.
Father Dr. Prudence Bicamumpaka, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics and Research at ICK, emphasized that AI should be an aid, not a shortcut.
“When you use AI, you should also do your own research and avoid being idle. It should assist you, not give you everything,” he said.
He also revealed that ICK is preparing an AI policy that will guide both students and staff on the ethical and professional use of the technology. The policy will set clear boundaries for AI use in academic work, even if he did not specify when it will be fully completed.
Jean Marc Dusingize, a lecturer and IT Coordinator at ICK, also highlighted the need for students to balance innovation with personal effort.
“AI is a powerful tool, but students should know its limits. If they depend on it too much, they risk losing their ability to think and create,” he warned.
Students embrace AI, but stay Alert
Students at ICK say AI has made research easier, improved access to information, and helped them understand complex topics.
ICK students explore innovative AI-powered learning tools during a practical session in the Computer Lab.
Emmanuel Mujyakera, a third-year Journalism and Communication student, shared. “When I don’t understand something, I use AI to get broader explanations. But I know not everything it gives is correct; I use it as a starting point for my own reasoning,” he said.
Phoibe Igiraneza, a second-year Education student, added: “AI helps me find new examples and approaches. But it can’t replace my own effort and understanding. As future teachers, we must think for ourselves.”
ICK aims to promote responsible AI use while safeguarding the quality of learning, continuously sensitizing students to avoid misusing the technology in ways that undermine originality and critical thinking.
To strengthen this effort, in October 2024, the university began using an anti-plagiarism software (Turnitin) to review academic work particularly for students preparing to graduate ensuring that their final research reflects genuine personal effort rather than AI-generated content.
Author: Celine Arame