‘Don’t let ChatGPT become copy machine’

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon has urged students and researchers to use artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly, warning against using tools like ChatGPT as a shortcut for academic work.
“We are now living in the AI era. We must use this technology wisely.

We have to ensure that ChatGPT does not become a copy machine for writing our research papers. Instead, it should be used to encourage creative learning,” he said on Saturday while addressing a programme marking Gono University Day 2026 at the PHA Auditorium of Gonoshasthaya Kendra in Savar.

The minister said talent has no geographical limits and should be nurtured to support national development.

“Talent has no barriers and needs no visa. Talent is a global citizen. We must identify and develop talent to drive progress,” he said.

Calling teachers facilitators, Milon said educators should guide students while encouraging curiosity and independent learning.

“Students must come forward and say, ‘Sir, I want to know, I want to learn.’ At the same time, teachers must also become student-friendly,” he added.

The minister warned that weakening the education system could seriously damage a nation.

“A country does not need a nuclear bomb to be destroyed. It is enough to destroy its education sector,” he said.

Recalling the contribution of late Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury, the founder of Gono University, Milon said the institution was established with the spirit of the Liberation War to serve ordinary people.

“Dr Zafrullah is no longer with us, but his legacy continues. He established Gono University for the people, and the university is still carrying forward that vision,” he said.

The education minister said many countries, including the United Kingdom, now consider education a major commercial sector, while Bangladesh wants to establish itself as an international education hub.

“I recently attended an international education forum in the UK where ministers from more than 150 countries participated. I realised that education has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, and countries like the UK have a significant education market in Bangladesh,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of technical and vocational education, Milon said Bangladesh must focus on creating a skilled workforce instead of relying only on traditional academic disciplines.

“Not everyone will become a neuroscientist, professor or doctor. We must give equal importance to technical education.

This year, an additional Tk 6,000 crore has been allocated in the national budget for technical education,” he said.

The programme was chaired by Gono University Vice-Chancellor Prof Md Abul Hossain.