ABU VC: AI Must Not Replace Critical Thinking

The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, cautioned postgraduate students at the 2026 Post Graduate Matriculation ceremony in Zaria against relying on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to replace critical thinking, independent research, and original scholarship. He emphasized that AI and emerging technologies should supplement students' intellectual efforts rather than replace their original ideas and meaningful interaction with academic supervisors.

Ahmed stated that AI could improve research, learning, and academic administration when utilized correctly, but students needed to confirm the accuracy of information generated by such tools before integrating it into their academic work. He also warned against plagiarism, fabricating references, using unverified AI-generated information, and presenting machine-produced content as their own work.

The Vice-Chancellor urged students to safeguard confidential data, acknowledge when AI was used, and take full responsibility for the quality and integrity of their work. He stressed that AI should enhance scholarship, not substitute critical thinking, original analysis, or engagement with supervisors.

Ahmed announced that the university was refocusing postgraduate education to adapt to changing academic and technological demands. This includes enhancing academic supervision, improving communication and accessibility to postgraduate services, and establishing clearer academic timelines from registration to completion. He affirmed that the university would offer comprehensive support to students throughout their academic journey, including guidance on the ethical and transparent use of AI in learning and research.

Beyond technology, Ahmed highlighted the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive postgraduate community for students with special needs, those from West African countries, and international students. He mentioned that ABU was widening opportunities for postgraduate students through academic clinics, research assistance, thesis and dissertation engagements, collaborative programs, competitive grants, and scholarships.

Provost of the Postgraduate College, Prof. Oluyinka Okubanjo, echoed these sentiments, saying that the institution was reinforcing its supervision and student-support systems to ensure timely and successful completion of postgraduate programs. Okubanjo stressed that these reforms would enhance communication, provide better access to services, enforce academic timelines, and promote an inclusive environment that values diversity and encourages collaboration for knowledge exchange.

The Provost implored students to maintain academic integrity, view postgraduate education as an opportunity to enhance critical thinking, solve real-world problems, and contribute meaningfully to society.