The Ministry of Education and Sports has cautioned schools against the unregulated use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, warning that misuse could promote plagiarism and undermine genuine learning as Uganda advances curriculum reforms.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Ketty Lamaro said the ministry is developing guidelines to ensure digital tools such as AI chatbots are used responsibly in teaching and assessment.
“We want to make sure that ICT tools like AI chat boxes remain tools and don’t deceive young people that they are the real thing,” Lamaro said at the Inter-University International Conference at Kyambogo University.
“The process is on to provide guidelines so that we can assist education not to be a plagiarism aspect through the chat boxes,”
She added that although learners are increasingly tech-savvy, they must be taught both the benefits and risks of online information.
Lamaro emphasised that Uganda remains committed to providing equitable and inclusive education for all learners including those with disabilities as the country transitions to a competency-based curriculum focused on critical thinking, creativity and practical skills.
“Real learning is now understanding concepts and translating them into real life work,” she said.
The curriculum has already been rolled out at lower secondary, with an adapted A’ Level version in place and a review for primary underway.
Kyambogo University Vice Chancellor Prof. Eli Katunguka said the institution is leading efforts to expand access to higher education for students with disabilities, currently supporting more than 700 learners with special needs.
“We are the lead institution in provision of disability support,” he said, urging policymakers to ensure that all students access education without discrimination.
Katunguka also called for greater investment in innovation and value addition, saying universities must adopt new approaches that help graduates turn knowledge into commercial products.
“The curriculum we are running was invented by colonialists,” he said. “We train students to produce raw goods, but not to turn them into products that make money.”
Conference convener Dr. Joseph Rwothumio echoed the appeal for stronger inclusion and innovation, urging policymakers to back reforms that respond to economic and social needs.
“We must make sure all learners are supported, regardless of whether they are considered ‘normal’ or have disabilities,” he said.
The conference brought together leaders, researchers and policymakers from seven African countries to discuss strategies for strengthening equity and innovation in the education sector.