While Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers enormous opportunities for knowledge creation, innovation and productivity, it also raises concerns about originality, authorship, honesty and the temptation to allow technology to replace critical thinking, the Chancellor of the Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG), and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Opare Kwakye, has observed.
Addressing the 20th Congregation Ceremony of PUG, he urged the University to embrace AI responsibly while safeguarding academic integrity and ethical standards, stressing that emerging technologies should neither be ignored nor feared but engaged wisely and responsibly.
The Chancellor described the rapid growth of AI as one of the most significant developments shaping teaching, learning and research in higher education. Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye called for a clear institutional policy on the acceptable use of AI, alongside training programmes to equip lecturers and students to use the technology ethically.
He further urged the University to design assessment methods that test understanding, reasoning and practical application rather than the mere reproduction of information. The Chancellor stressed that the University’s response to AI must remain firmly rooted in its core values, particularly integrity.
“Integrity is a core value of this University, and a degree obtained dishonestly is a falsehood told to the whole of society,” he stated. Drawing on Scripture, he encouraged the University community to approach technological advancements with discernment, embracing what is beneficial while rejecting practices that undermine the purpose of education.
The remarks formed part of his reflections on current developments in higher education and the lessons they offer the Presbyterian University, Ghana as it seeks to remain academically relevant while upholding its Christian identity and values.
By Jerome Otchere
