University Vice Chancellor Warns AI Overreliance Threatens Students’ Critical Thinking Skills
Dar es Salaam – The Vice Chancellor of Kampala International University in Tanzania (KIUT), Prof Peter Msolla, has issued a stark warning that increasing dependence on artificial intelligence among university students is threatening to erode essential critical thinking abilities that form the foundation of higher education.
Speaking at KIUT’s eighth graduation ceremony on December 10, 2025, where 1,484 students received academic awards, Prof Msolla emphasized the urgent need for universities to reassess their approach to guiding students in the adoption of emerging technologies.
While acknowledging AI’s transformative capabilities, he cautioned that uncontrolled usage is already compromising intellectual development among students.
"We live in a digital age, but excessive reliance on AI is concerning. When students can simply click a button to complete assignments, their capacity to think independently diminishes. Technology offers both opportunities and challenges, and it is our duty to ensure it is used responsibly," Prof Msolla stated.
The Vice Chancellor stressed that universities serve as incubators of knowledge and innovation, emphasizing that graduates must become creators rather than mere consumers of information.
"Sustainable economic progress depends on individuals capable of analysis, evaluation, and original thought. Society expects your achievements to reflect genuine understanding, not shortcuts," he added.
Prof Msolla’s comments reflect growing global concerns about the proliferation of generative AI tools, including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, which students increasingly use for assignments, text summarization, and problem-solving.
Education technology expert Dr Neema Mwakalinga echoed the Vice Chancellor’s concerns, clarifying that AI misuse, rather than the technology itself, poses the primary risk to student learning.
"AI should be a learning companion, not a shortcut. Universities must implement robust digital literacy programmes, modernize assessment methods, and train faculty to integrate AI responsibly," Dr Mwakalinga explained.
Beyond addressing AI challenges, Prof Msolla announced plans to complete KIUT’s teaching hospital by the end of 2026, which will enhance practical learning opportunities for health sciences students while improving medical services for the surrounding community.
Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic, Prof Honoratha Mushi, outlined ongoing institutional efforts to modernize laboratories, teaching equipment, and student facilities, with plans to expand admissions in alignment with national education priorities.
The University Council, chaired by Prof Yunus Mgaya, commended KIUT leadership for maintaining professional standards and ensuring good governance at the science and technology-focused private institution.
Of the 1,484 graduates celebrated at the ceremony, 772 were men and 712 women. The graduating class included 821 diploma recipients, 641 bachelor’s degree holders, and 22 master’s degree graduates.
