The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, has warned postgraduate students against allowing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to replace critical thinking, independent research and original scholarship.
He said AI and other emerging technologies should complement students’ intellectual efforts rather than replace original ideas and meaningful engagement with academic supervisors.
The Vice-Chancellor gave the warning at the 2026 Post Graduate Matriculation ceremony held at the PG School in Samaru campus, Zaria.
He said AI could enhance research, learning and academic administration when properly used, but students must verify information generated by such tools before incorporating it into their academic work.
The vice-chancellor also cautioned students against plagiarism, fabricated references, unverified AI-generated information and presenting machine-produced content as their own original scholarship.
He also urged them to protect confidential information, acknowledge the use of AI where required and remain personally responsible for the quality and integrity of their work.
“AI should support your scholarship, not replace your critical thinking, original analysis or engagement with your supervisors,” Ahmed said.
The Vice Chancellor also told the newly admitted students that the university was repositioning postgraduate education to meet changing academic and technological demands.
According to him, ABU is strengthening academic supervision, improving communication and access to postgraduate services, while introducing clearer academic timelines from registration to completion.
“Our message to you is simple: we want you to graduate on time, and we want you to graduate well,” the vice-chancellor said.
Ahmed said the university would provide students with better support throughout their academic journey, including guidance on the ethical and transparent use of AI in learning and research.
Beyond technology, Ahmed said the university was committed to creating an inclusive postgraduate community where students with special needs, those from West African countries and other international students would feel valued.
He said ABU was expanding opportunities for postgraduate students through academic clinics, research support, thesis and dissertation engagements, collaborative programmes, competitive grants and scholarships.
Earlier, Prof.Oluyinka Okubanjo, Provost of the Postgraduate College, said the institution was strengthening its supervision and student-support systems to facilitate timely and successful completion of postgraduate programmes.
Okubanjo said the reforms would improve communication and access to services, enforce academic timelines and promote an inclusive environment where diversity could strengthen collaboration and knowledge exchange.
The Provost urged the students to uphold academic integrity and see postgraduate education as an opportunity to sharpen their critical thinking, solve real-world problems and make meaningful contributions to society.
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