A recent Ascun study shows artificial intelligence is now a reality in Colombian higher education, but most institutions lack policies and structures for its regulation. While 88.5% of students use it for assignments, only 55.2% of higher education institutions have AI guidelines. Public policy lags behind, creating gaps in equity and educational quality.
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in Colombian universities has shifted from speculative to everyday, according to Ascun's report 'Overview of AI in Colombian Higher Education, 2025'. This analysis underscores Colombia's challenge in integrating this technology without undermining quality or equity. Yet, 55.2% of higher education institutions (HEIs) lack specific AI policies or guidelines, and 65.7% have no dedicated committees or bodies for its management.
In teaching and student activities, adoption stems more from individual efforts than institutional strategies. Only one in three HEIs provides AI training to faculty, and just 27.9% has teams to guide students on its use. In research, AI aids data analysis and text review, but over 50% of HEIs lack ethical protocols or governance to ensure scientific integrity.
The gap between usage and oversight is concerning: 88.5% of students employ AI for assignments, with 31.1% acknowledging ethically questionable practices. This threatens academic integrity and critical thinking development. In administration, only 43.5% incorporates AI into strategic decisions, despite OECD recommendations on data-driven management for sustainability.
The Ministry of Education is debating regulations, but they fall short of the technological pace. Experts call for a comprehensive policy covering funding, infrastructure, and ethical standards. Leading HEIs focus on leadership, training, and data governance to turn AI into an educational innovation cornerstone, bolstering national competitiveness.