UNSW staff are getting ChatGPT in a major deal with OpenAI

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is going all-in on generative AI after signing a deal with OpenAI to roll out its ChatGPT Edu platform to staff.

It’s OpenAI’s biggest roll out in Australia as the US tech unicorn prepares to ramp up its presence in the region.

UNSW vice-chancellor Professor Attila Brungs,announced the deal at the UNSW Societal Impact of AI Symposium in Sydney today following a 10-month trial involving 800  staff that saw 98% of participants wanting to keep using it.

“As we introduce these technologies, our focus is on helping staff explore how AI can add value in teaching, research and operations, while maintaining the highest standards of ethics, privacy and academic integrity,” he said.

Prompts entered into ChatGPT Edu will remain private, and data can’t be used for model training.

UNSW’s chief information officer, Chrissy Burns, told the Symposium the priority is to introduce the technology in a way that’s safe, reliable and supports staff.

“This is a careful, staged rollout, supported by training and clear guidelines, so that staff can use AI responsibly and in ways that reflect UNSW’s values,” she said.

The university will purchase carbon offsets to mitigate the emissions associated with the ChatGPT Edu agreement.

Staff  will be offered optional training before receiving a licence. The rollout is expected to take place over the coming months.

OpenAI’s APAC head of education Raghav Gupta is said AI frees up time for for teaching.

“For researchers and university staff, it’s becoming part of the infrastructure of higher education, much like the internet. We’re excited to see UNSW leaning in with a thoughtful rollout that ensures their campus is ready to harness these benefits,” he said.

Globally Oxford, the London Business School, Columbia and Arizona State University are among tertiary educators embracing AI’s use.