Introduction

Technological advancement has brought about the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), rapidly replacing many traditional roles, including human resources within educational institutions. AI’s integration into the education sector has made it easier for students to complete assignments, but it raises concerns about the authenticity of their learning and intellectual development. Are we fostering genuine graduates or simply producing individuals reliant on artificial intelligence?

Authentic Graduates or Fake Folks in the Industry?

University students today, with internet access, no longer struggle with academic assignments requiring thorough research. At the tap of a finger, AI can provide complete answers with all necessary information. Students then make minor adjustments and submit their work. This convenience prompts the question: If a student relies on AI throughout their studies and graduates, who is the true graduate— the student or the AI? Who will work in an institution— the individual or the AI? Are we producing genuine graduates with real intelligence, or are we merely handing degrees to individuals whose intelligence is artificial?

The Cherished Simplicity

I recently encountered a young lady pursuing her studies at an elite university in Zimbabwe. During our discussion, she admitted she no longer spends sleepless nights figuring out assignments because AI provides all the answers. This reliance on AI raises concerns about the future of human intelligence. While AI offers easy access to knowledge, should it replace human intellect and still grant the individual academic honors?

Conclusion

Artificial Intelligence is here to stay, but we must find ways to authenticate students’ work to prevent overreliance on AI. It is crucial to develop and implement systems that ensure students are rewarded for their genuine efforts, not for what AI does for them. Although some educational institutions do not accept AI-generated work, the methods they use need broader adoption. Without such measures, we risk promoting AI products at the expense of genuine education.