The government raises concerns over the unethical use of ChatGPT in academic research during a Senate meeting. Discussions highlight challenges in student housing, lack of leadership in science institutions, and the need for ethical AI use in education.
Govt Warns Against ChatGPT Misuse in Academics
The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology, led by Senator Kamal Ali Agha, has raised concerns over the misuse of AI tools like ChatGPT in academic research. The meeting also addressed leadership gaps in science institutions and challenges in student housing at COMSATS University.
Key Issues in Leadership
Nine out of 17 sub-institutions under the Ministry of Science and Technology are without permanent heads, creating administrative inefficiencies. Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui assured the committee that three appointment summaries have been sent to the Prime Minister.
The Pakistan Council for Science and Technology (PCST) is no longer appointing senators, as its board has been dissolved by the Right-Sizing Committee.
Housing Problems at COMSATS University
The committee expressed concern over inadequate student housing at COMSATS University Islamabad. With 11,000 students on campus, the university relies on private hostels near Park Road, where conditions are poor. Some hostels reportedly accommodate up to 10 students in a single room.
Chairman Agha directed university authorities to address these issues and provide proper housing facilities.
Unethical Use of ChatGPT in Education
The misuse of ChatGPT and other AI tools in academics was highlighted as a growing concern. COMSATS University officials explained that, despite using Higher Education Commission (HEC)-approved plagiarism tools, detecting and managing ChatGPT-based misconduct remains challenging.
Senator Afnan Ullah raised questions about how the university handles such cases. University representatives emphasized the importance of teaching both students and faculty to use AI tools ethically and productively. Faculty training programs are already underway to promote responsible use of ChatGPT in research and academics.
Balancing Innovation and Integrity
The committee emphasized the need for universities to adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining academic integrity. Members also called for appointing permanent leadership in science institutions to ensure efficient operations.
This meeting highlights the pressing need to balance innovation with ethical standards in higher education, especially with the increasing integration of AI tools like ChatGPT.
