RCSI has launched a new, comprehensive Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Usage Policy, alongside a dedicated RCSI AI Hub, offering guidance surrounding the ethical use of AI across education and research to RCSI staff and students in both Dublin and Bahrain.

The policy works to balance the growing potential of AI while creating safeguards which protect intellectual property, uphold cybersecurity, and safeguard sensitive information, and the new AI Hub will support RCSI staff in understanding AI and harnessing its potential. Both resources provide practical support in using AI's capabilities to strengthen rather than compromise academic integrity.

The AI Hub will operate as a resource centre of AI literacy for all RCSI staff. The Hub will help GenAI become a core organisational capability, aligned with healthcare impact and clear governance. Within the policy is the institution's selection of Microsoft Copilot as the preferred AI platform, to ensure strong data protection and strict GDPR compliance.

“The RCSI AI and Digital Health committee have worked hard to create a comprehensive policy and AI Hub that doesn't outright restrict AI use but enables our staff and students to use this innovation responsibly,” said Dr Sudipto Das, Vice Dean for AI, Digital and Connected Health.

“Overall, this policy, paired with the Hub represents both a significant and necessary advancement to remain up-to-date with contemporary technologies while upholding rigorous standards expected from a leading healthcare institution. AI will be accessible to everyone in our institution, along with the resources provided by the Hub to ensure all staff and students know how to use it in a way that enhances their work and learning.”

The five foundational principles governing this policy are: accountability, transparency, respect and equity, data protection and cybersecurity, and integrity in teaching, learning, and research.

“AI should only be used in ways that avoid bias, uphold dignity and support inclusive practice. AI is strictly prohibited from replacing original thinking or from validating research methods. It is these foundational principles within our new policy which allow for RCSI staff and students to use AI to complement their work while also maintaining the highest ethical standards,” Dr Das said.

Human oversight remains mandatory to ensure AI serves only as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for critical thinking and expertise. All users of AI will be responsible for validating all outputs and ensuring that any AI involvement in academic or research work is acknowledged and documented.

With the launch of this policy, RCSI has committed to continuous monitoring and aligning with national and European Union regulatory frameworks to stay current with the rapid evolution of AI technologies.