By John Emeripus
Egerton University, Main Campus, Njoro | 14 October 2026
Egerton University Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic, Research and Extension, Prof. Bernard Aduda, has called for proactive institutional policies to guide the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into teaching, learning, research and university administration.
Speaking during the official opening of the AI in Higher Education Summit at Egerton University's Main Campus in Njoro on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, Prof. Aduda emphasised the urgent need for universities to respond strategically to the growing influence of generative AI and its implications for academic standards, graduate competencies and the future of higher education.
He noted that developing an institutional AI policy is one of the summit's key objectives, stressing that universities must take the initiative in shaping how the technology is adopted and used.
“We must be proactive in this space,” Prof. Aduda emphasised, underscoring the importance of establishing clear guidelines that enable institutions to harness AI's potential while addressing the risks associated with its use.
Prof. Aduda's call for a comprehensive framework reflects the need for universities to move beyond informal AI use towards a coordinated institutional approach that balances innovation with academic responsibility.
Prof. Aduda's remarks underscored the importance of protecting the credibility of university qualifications by ensuring that graduates possess the knowledge, skills and competencies their awards represent.
Universities must therefore establish clear expectations regarding acceptable AI use, proper attribution and individual accountability for academic work.
The summit's theme, “Governing GenAI for Competency-Based Higher Education,” highlights the need to align AI integration with the changing demands of university education.
The three-day summit, running from 14 to 16 October 2026, is expected to contribute to the development of a draft institutional AI policy covering learning, teaching, research and administration.
As universities navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape, the challenge is not simply whether to adopt the technology, but how to integrate it responsibly while preserving the essential values of higher education.
Prof. Aduda's central message is clear: universities must take the lead in shaping AI adoption through proactive policies that promote innovation, safeguard academic integrity and ensure that graduates acquire and demonstrate the competencies required to succeed in a changing world.
