Tanzania Investigates Alleged AI Use in National Exams as 58 Candidates Face Sanctions

By Bethel Manase

Tanzania’s National Examinations Council is reported to have taken action against 58 candidates over the alleged use of artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT, during the 2026 national examinations.

The reported move has sparked widespread discussion on social media and reignited debate over the growing influence of artificial intelligence in education and assessment.

According to reports, examination officials linked the affected candidates to the use of unauthorized AI tools while sitting their examinations, prompting disciplinary action aimed at protecting the integrity of the country’s examination system.

Education authorities have maintained that safeguarding the credibility and fairness of national examinations remains a top priority and warned candidates against using unauthorized technology during examinations.

Officials have also emphasized that while artificial intelligence can be a valuable tool for learning, research and academic support, its use during supervised examinations constitutes examination malpractice and undermines fair competition among candidates.

The incident has renewed discussions among educators, parents and policymakers about how schools and examination bodies should respond to the rapid growth of AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT.