AI Degrees Face Real World Test Malawi VC Warns

Malawi University Leader Sounds Alarm on AI Degrees

Professor Francis Moto, the Vice-Chancellor of the Catholic University of Malawi, has issued a significant caution to students regarding the reliance on Artificial Intelligence tools like ChatGPT for obtaining academic qualifications. His message underscores a growing concern within higher education about the authenticity of learning in the age of advanced AI.

The Real World Test for AI Assisted Qualifications

During a recent address, Professor Moto strongly emphasized the critical importance of students genuinely understanding their course material. He advised against depending on AI for completing assignments, pointing out a potential disconnect between academic success achieved through such means and practical, real-world competence.

"Some of you write your assignments using ChatGPT and pass, but on your graduation day, we will celebrate your achievement. Please, understand that the real world will challenge the value of that qualification," stated Professor Moto. This direct warning highlights the potential for qualifications earned with heavy AI assistance to be devalued when graduates face real-world professional challenges.

University Upholds Standards Amidst AI Advancements

Professor Moto further elaborated on the Catholic University of Malawi's dedication to maintaining its rigorous standards for higher education. He affirmed the university's commitment to ensuring that its graduates are not only academically certified but also genuinely prepared and relevant for the demands of the contemporary job market. This stance is crucial for preserving the credibility and value of the degrees awarded by the institution.

ChatGPT A Powerful Tool with Caveats

Since its introduction in 2022, ChatGPT has rapidly gained prominence as a powerful Artificial Intelligence tool, showcasing the swift advancements and vast potential of AI technology. It has been widely praised for its remarkable ability to generate human-like text and engage users in sophisticated conversations.

However, alongside its capabilities, ChatGPT also presents significant drawbacks that users must acknowledge. These include the potential for generating inaccurate information, which can be problematic in academic contexts, and various ethical concerns related to its use.

Vatican Calls for AI Regulation in Education

The concerns about AI's role in education are not isolated. Reflecting a broader institutional awareness, the Vatican’s Dicastery of Faith, in conjunction with the Dicastery of Education and Culture, released guidelines on January 27, 2025. These guidelines, titled Antiqua et Nova, address the use of Artificial Intelligence and explicitly urge governments to regulate the application of such technology, particularly within the educational sphere.