University of the Free State

Approved at Senate 27 May 2025. Within this statement, AI includes both generative and assistive AI technologies in the completion of a wide range of teaching and learning, research, and administrative tasks.

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English (en)

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26 may 2026

Localizador de evidencia

PDF title and opening definition section

Informed by the goals of Vision 130 the UFS does not impose a blanket restriction on the use of AI as it believes that by using new and emerging technologies the quality of learning, teaching, research, and business processes could be enhanced.

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English (en)

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26 may 2026

Localizador de evidencia

AI Position Statement, institutional position paragraph

Academic rigour, integrity and honesty: In embracing the potentials of AI, it is imperative to uphold the fundamental principles of academic integrity and ethical conduct in higher education. The integration of AI should, therefore, not undermine the core values of academic rigour, integrity, ethics, and honesty.

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English (en)

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26 may 2026

Localizador de evidencia

AI Position Statement, guiding principles

The University of the Free State (UFS) will discontinue the use of AI detection software across all faculties and academic activities from 1 July 2026, signalling a major shift in how the institution approaches academic integrity in an increasingly AI-enabled higher education environment.

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English (en)

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26 may 2026

Localizador de evidencia

News item, opening paragraph

Respect and awareness: Ensure the use of AI tools to respect individuals' privacy, and data security, and to mitigate and raise awareness of potential social and environmental harm.

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English (en)

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26 may 2026

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AI Position Statement, guiding principles

AI literacy and skills should be developed as part of the digital competencies across all levels within the UFS. Students, staff, and stakeholders should be supported to use AI tools effectively and responsibly.

Idioma de la fuente

English (en)

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26 may 2026

Localizador de evidencia

AI Position Statement, guiding principles

For students, the shift means that AI detection tools will no longer form part of assessment or academic integrity processes. At the same time, the university reaffirmed that students remain responsible for producing original work and for using generative AI tools honestly and appropriately within institutional guidelines.

Idioma de la fuente

English (en)

Hash de instantánea

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Recuperado

26 may 2026

Localizador de evidencia

News item, student impact paragraph