North South University’s (NSU) Center for Social Impact and Sustainability (CSIS) hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Generative AI, Students’ Writing, and Ethics” on 16 February 2026 at North South University. The event gathered faculty members, researchers, and students to examine the ethical, pedagogical, and institutional implications of generative AI in higher education, a press release said.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor of NSU, Professor Nasar U. Ahmed, graced the event with his presence. The roundtable was moderated by Professor Sharif Nurul Ahkam, Director of CSIS, who opened the discussion by emphasizing that universities stand at a crossroads where technology and learning are increasingly intertwined. He noted that generative AI is both an unavoidable educational tool and a powerful ethical challenge, raising urgent questions about authenticity, responsibility, and intellectual integrity.
The discussion explored the tension between consumer convenience and scholarly discipline, highlighting that while AI utilities can assist learning, they can also become harmful if used unethically. Speakers reflected on the need for lawful and ethical frameworks, warning of the potential disempowerment that occurs when students substitute technology for thinking. Participants stressed that writing emerges from reading, reflection, and sustained engagement, and that overreliance on AI risks long-term skill erosion even while offering short-term productivity gains.
An interdisciplinary panel of distinguished speakers enriched the conversation that included Dr. Norman K. Swazo, Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Office of Research; Dr. Fariah Mahzabeen, Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering; Dr. Khandker Md Nahin Mamun, Chair of Marketing & International Business; Dr. Mohammad Shamsuzzaman, Associate Professor of English and Modern Languages; and Dr. Halimur Rashid Khan, Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell.
Panelists addressed practical concerns such as AI hallucinations, data bias, and the limits of systems that rely solely on existing datasets. They emphasized that AI literacy must become a central component of higher education. Recommendations included forming wise and interdisciplinary institutional committees, developing clear AI policies, recalibrating assessment systems, and creating formal documentation to guide ethical use. The need to teach students how to use AI reflectively—to review, revise, rewrite and properly acknowledge assistance—was repeatedly stressed.
Participants noted that a large percentage of students are already using AI tools, making prohibition unrealistic and underscoring the importance of guided integration. Rather than viewing generative AI as the end of writing, the roundtable framed it as a technological shift that demands stronger literacy, ethical awareness, and institutional leadership.
The session concluded with an interactive exchange, reflecting strong community interest in shaping responsible AI practices. CSIS reaffirmed its commitment to fostering dialogue on emerging technologies and supporting policies that balance innovation with academic integrity.
