UNIOSUN Sets New Rules for Students Using ChatGPT And Other AI Tools

Osun State University (UNIOSUN) students will be required to disclose their use of artificial intelligence tools in academic assignments, projects and research work under a new policy outlining how AI can be used across the university.

The policy which takes effect in November 2026 covers undergraduate and postgraduate students, academic and administrative staff, as well as visiting researchers across all UNIOSUN campuses. It establishes guidelines for the use of AI in learning, teaching, research and university examinations.

2026 UNIOSUN AI Policy

Under the policy, students must explicitly state when and how they used generative AI tools including ChatGPT and Claude while preparing assignments, projects and theses.

The university also classifies submitting unedited AI-generated text, code or data as one's original work as plagiarism.

However, the policy does not completely prohibit students from using artificial intelligence for academic activities. Instead, it introduces a three-level system that allows lecturers to determine the extent to which AI tools can be used for specific assignments.

• Totally Prohibited: Students are NOT allowed to use AI tools for academic task.
• Assisted/Permitted: Students can use AI for brainstorming, preparing outlines and grammar checks provided they acknowledge the assistance.
• Fully Integrated: AI use is encouraged as part of the assignment's analytical OR creative process with students required to include a reflection appendix.

The university states that lecturers must indicate the applicable AI category in their course outlines.

UNIOSUN Policy On AI Use During Examinations

The policy also addresses the use of artificial intelligence during university examinations.

Generative AI tools, smart devices and unauthorised large language models are prohibited during physical and remotely proctored examinations.

An exception may only apply where the Senate has specifically authorised their use for certain computer-based tests.

UNIOSUN Policy Addresses AI Detection

UNIOSUN has also addressed concerns surrounding the use of AI detection software to identify students who may have used artificial intelligence in their academic work.

The university acknowledges the limitations of automated AI detection tools and states that detection results alone will not be accepted as sufficient proof of academic misconduct.

Instead such results must be considered alongside a broader assessment and discussions with the affected student.

This means that an AI detection flag by itself cannot establish that a student has violated the university's academic integrity rules.

Important Note For UNIOSUN Students On Its AI Policy

The university states that violations of the AI policy will be handled through its existing student and staff disciplinary committee processes.

It also provides for the establishment of a multidisciplinary AI Governance Committee involving representatives from the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, Academic Planning, Library Services and Student Affairs to review and update the guidelines annually.

Source: Osun State University (UNIOSUN): "Institutional Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy "