The policy provides a framework for the responsible and sustainable use of AI in teaching, research, and administration. This move signals the university’s commitment to not only harnessing the potential of AI but to do so responsibly, ethically, and in a human-centred manner.

The university has a policy that clarifies the roles and responsibilities of students, lecturers, researchers, and management, while situating AI governance within the IT department. NWU AI Hub director Prof. Anné Verhoef said this marks a milestone for the sector and helps shape national conversations about the responsible use of AI in higher education and research.

“AI is affecting every aspect of academia and universities, from teaching and learning to research, management, and administration,” said Verhoef. “It became clear that we urgently needed a policy to help us to implement AI in an ethical, responsible, and human-centred way.”

“AI challenges academic integrity, but it also has the advantage of helping us conduct research that can make a real difference in our communities and in South Africa, while improving efficiency in teaching, learning, and administration.”

The AI steering committee includes representatives from faculties, students, administration, the library, and the centre for teaching and learning, and reports to the IT committee, which in turn reports to the university management committee, ensuring accountability and coherent implementation across the university.

‘The potential risks of AI need to be clearly managed’

Many universities are delaying AI policies due to rapid technological change, but a flexible, broadly designed policy is essential. The policy also reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, addressing AI’s energy and water consumption and its ecological impact, he said.

The potential risks and benefits of AI need to be clearly managed so that all stakeholders can use it with confidence, to the benefit of the university, the community, and the country. By formalising its AI governance framework, the university sets a clear national benchmark for responsible, ethical, and sustainable AI in higher education.

“Other universities may have AI guidelines, but the advantage of our AI policy is that it clarifies roles and responsibilities so that we can embrace AI in a unified, human-centred, and responsible manner,” he said.

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame