The University of the Free State (UFS) will discontinue the use of AI detection software across all faculties from 1 July 2026, marking a significant shift in how the institution approaches academic integrity in the age of generative AI.
The decision, announced on 21 May 2026, ends the use of tools such as Turnitin’s AI detection function. However, Turnitin’s similarity-checking software will remain in place to support plagiarism detection.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof Anthea Rhoda, said the move reflects growing concerns about the accuracy and fairness of AI detection technologies.
“Academic integrity remains central to the work of the university. What is changing is our approach. We are reaffirming the importance of academic judgement, transparent assessment practices, and the responsible use of generative AI,” said Prof Rhoda.
UFS is moving away from what it describes as a “catch-and-punish” model toward redesigning assessments to prioritise critical thinking, originality and deeper disciplinary engagement. The university stated that AI detection tools cannot reliably distinguish between human and machine-generated text, raising concerns about bias and due process.
To support the transition, UFS will expand academic development initiatives for both staff and students. This includes assistance with assessment redesign, professional development programmes and AI learning modules offered through its Digital Skills and Competency Framework.
The policy shift has sparked discussion beyond Bloemfontein. Students at the Tshwane University of Technology, TUT, have expressed interest in a similar approach, arguing that heavy reliance on AI detection software can unfairly complicate submissions, particularly when assignments cannot be easily revised to meet algorithmic expectations.
UFS says the decision follows months of engagement and dialogue around artificial intelligence. In March 2026, the university hosted a public lecture on assessment in the post-ChatGPT era, led by Prof Mike Perkins. In May 2026, the UFS Senate Conference examined AI, ethics and the future of higher education. The university will also host the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Symposium on Artificial Intelligence in Parys, Free State, South Africa, from 9 to 13 November 2026.
Despite the policy change, students will still be required to produce original work and use AI tools transparently in line with institutional guidelines. UFS says the focus is now on strengthening AI literacy and designing learning experiences that promote creativity, reflection and responsible knowledge production.
The move positions UFS among a growing number of universities reassessing how to uphold academic standards without relying on AI detection technologies.
