University Chancellor Warns AI Overuse Threatens Critical Thinking Skills Among Students
Dar es Salaam – The Acting Chancellor of Kampala International University in Tanzania (KIUT), Prof Peter Msolla, has warned that excessive reliance on artificial intelligence among university students is undermining critical thinking abilities that are fundamental to higher education.
Speaking at KIUT’s eighth graduation ceremony on December 10, 2025, where 1,484 students received their academic awards, Prof Msolla emphasized the urgent need for universities to reassess their approach to guiding students in the use of emerging technologies.
While acknowledging AI’s transformative capabilities, he cautioned that unrestricted use 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 chancellor stressed that universities serve as incubators of knowledge and innovation, and graduates must emerge as 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 concerns align with growing global apprehension over the widespread use of generative AI tools by students for completing assignments, summarizing texts, and solving problems.
Education technology expert Dr Neema Mwakalinga echoed the chancellor’s warning, noting that the misuse of AI, rather than the technology itself, poses the greatest risk.
"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 said.
In other developments, Prof Msolla announced plans to complete KIUT’s teaching hospital by the end of 2026, which will strengthen practical training opportunities for health sciences students while improving medical services for the surrounding community.
Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic, Prof Honoratha Mushi, outlined ongoing initiatives to upgrade laboratories, teaching equipment, and student facilities, with plans to expand student admissions in alignment with national education objectives.
The University Council, chaired by Prof Yunus Mgaya, praised KIUT leadership for maintaining professional standards and ensuring strong governance at the science- and technology-focused private institution.
Of the 1,484 graduates, 772 were men and 712 women, with 821 earning diplomas, 641 obtaining bachelor’s degrees, and 22 receiving master’s qualifications.
