First and Only Institution in HK Bans Using ChatGPT


Now Shenzhen   |   February 27, 2023

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) on Friday issued a temporary ban on students using the ChatGPT or any other artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools for coursework, classwork and assessments, being the first and only institution in the metropolitan to issue such a ban.

It will take some time to draft a long-term policy on AI tools, said Professor Ian Holliday, vice president of teaching and learning of HKU, while announcing the ban via student e-mails.

“So we need to adopt a short-term policy as a temporary measure. We are banning the use of ChatGPT or any other AI-based tools for all classroom, coursework, and assignments at HKU.”

If students want to use AI-based applications, they must obtain a written consent from their course instructor, otherwise, any violations will be regarded as potential plagiarism, said Holliday. 

If there is a suspicion of violation, teachers can call the student to discuss the assignment performance, require an additional oral exam or additional in-class exam, and take other measures, said the professor.

Source: SCMP, CGTN