UNESCO Calls for Clear Frameworks for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Universities
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has emphasized the importance of establishing “clear and tangible” frameworks to ensure that the use of artificial intelligence in universities remains ethical and human-centered.
This call came following the release of a global study revealing that nearly two-thirds of higher education institutions (UNESCO chairs and the UNITWIN Networks) already have guidelines concerning artificial intelligence or are in the process of developing them.
Artificial Intelligence in Academia
Conducted during UNESCO’s Digital Learning Week, the study showed that the integration of artificial intelligence has become a central issue within universities worldwide. The organization underlined the urgent need to enhance institutional capacities and adopt policies based on “inclusivity, equity, diversity, and quality.”
According to the survey, about 90% of the 400 participants from 90 countries use AI-based tools in their work, particularly in research and writing. Furthermore, nearly half of them employ these tools in teaching, whether for lesson planning, assistance with grading, or plagiarism detection.
Ethical Challenges and Concerns
The study indicated that several institutions face ethical difficulties, such as excessive reliance by students on these tools, disputes over research contributions, and data biases. Other challenges include “ethical and environmental concerns” or a lack of familiarity with AI mechanisms.
Despite these challenges, efforts are growing to adopt institutional policies, although there is a clear regional disparity: Europe and North America lead the way (about 70% of universities have guidelines), followed by Latin America and the Caribbean (45%).
To keep pace with these transformations, UNESCO has issued several reference guides, including one for policymakers and competence frameworks for learners and teachers, and is currently working on developing new directions aimed at the higher education sector.
