Across university campuses in Rwanda, a quiet revolution is taking place one powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Tools like ChatGPT and other AI platforms are slowly becoming a part of the everyday academic lives of students. Whether it’s writing essays, solving assignments, or conducting research, many students are beginning to rely on AI in ways that are changing how they study and learn.
But what do Rwandan students really think about this shift? Is AI helping them improve, or making them lazier? To answer this, we spoke with students from different universities in Rwanda and gathered insights into their experiences, concerns, and hopes for AI in education.
AI in the Classroom: A Helping Hand or a Shortcut?
For many students, AI tools like ChatGPT are seen as a digital assistant that makes learning easier. This time-saving ability is one of the main reasons why students love AI. Instead of spending hours looking through textbooks or internet sources, they can ask AI questions and get instant answers. It’s like having a private tutor, available 24/7. Others use AI for help with writing. For example, some students said they use ChatGPT to structure their essays or suggest better words
Changing Study Habits
Traditionally, students in Rwanda have relied on group discussions, library research, and handwritten notes. But now, digital tools are shifting those habits.
Many students admitted they now study differently. Instead of highlighting textbooks, they interact with AI tools. They type in questions, explore answers, and take digital notes. A lot of students claim Ai is more interactive because “Instead of just reading, I’m asking and learning through conversation.”
AI tools are also helping with time management. With busy schedules, students find it easier to organize their work and meet deadlines with AI reminders or tools that generate outlines quickly.
However, some worry that these habits may lead to over-dependence. “It’s good, but if you always rely on ChatGPT, you may stop thinking critically,” warns a lot of lecturers from different universities. The solution to all this, is to guide students on how to use AI as a support tool not as a replacement for learning.”
Ethical Concerns: Cheating or Smart Learning?
One big concern among both students and teachers is academic honesty. Is using ChatGPT to write an essay considered cheating?
Some students admit they have used AI to generate full assignments. “When I had too many deadlines, I asked ChatGPT to write the full paper,” says different students. Students claim that they know it’s not good, but sometimes they’re under pressure
However, others argue that AI should be treated the same way as any tool. “If you use it correctly just to help and not to copy everything then it’s not cheating.”
Universities in Rwanda are starting to take this issue seriously. Some have introduced new policies about AI use. Others are training lecturers to detect AI-generated work. The goal is to create balance letting students use new tools without losing the value of original thinking.
Access and Inequality
While AI is becoming popular, not all students have equal access. To use tools like ChatGPT effectively, students need a stable internet connection and good digital devices. In rural areas or for low-income students, this can be a big challenge.
This raises concerns about digital inequality. If only some students have access to advanced tools, will it create an unfair advantage in education?
The Future of AI in Rwandan Education
Despite the challenges, most students are excited about the future of AI in learning. They believe it can transform education by making learning more personalized and interesting.
Some universities are already exploring how to integrate AI into official teaching. There are discussions about AI-assisted learning platforms, smarter research tools, and even AI-based tutors that speak Kinyarwanda.
But for this to succeed, both teachers and students need training. “There should be proper guidance, so they use it in the right way.”
AI is no longer a thing of the future, it’s here, and it’s changing how Rwandan students learn. From boosting research to making writing easier, AI tools like ChatGPT are offering new opportunities for learners.
However, with great power comes responsibility. Students must be careful not to misuse AI or rely on it blindly. At the same time, universities must ensure fair access and provide proper training.
As Rwanda continues to embrace digital transformation, the role of AI in education will only grow. And if used wisely, it could help shape a smarter, more curious, and more capable generation of learners.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10
