The Fiji National University (FNU) acknowledges the evolving digital landscape and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) tools, particularly large language models like ChatGPT, on academic integrity.

With the readily available AI tools, the probability of students misusing this to tackle academic assignments are high, compromising established academic principles.

Recognising the potential of AI to revolutionise teaching and learning in higher education, FNU remains committed to ensuring its students and graduates are technologically literate and proficient in the latest technologies, including AI.

FNU’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, outlined the University’s proactive approach, involving reviewing university policies and processes.

“We are reviewing our academic integrity and related policies to address these evolving dynamics. This includes clearly defining acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI, along with identifying breaches of academic integrity,” said Professor Nabobo-Baba.

“Educating our students on the capabilities and limitations of AI is also crucial. We aim to finalise this policy review within the current academic year.”

FNU initiated awareness campaigns on AI and ChatGPT last year, targeting both students and staff members, as part of an initiative led by the University’s Office of Learning and Teaching.

While the university anticipates the development of an academic integrity policy related to the acceptable use of AI this year, it has taken initial steps. Staff marking assessments through Moodle Turnitin Assignment now have access to new AI detection tool, that can identify content potentially generated by AI. However, staff are advised to use this cautiously due to the absence of a finalised policy.