Changes in the Functioning of Norwegian Universities: The EU and Artificial Intelligence Step In
New EU regulations on artificial intelligence are being incorporated into Norwegian law. Universities must prepare for new obligations. Preparations should begin now.
The new regulations will cover the entire higher education sector.
Fot. Wygenerowano przy pomocy AI
The use of artificial intelligence in higher education is growing rapidly. According to Studiebarometret 2025, over 70 percent of students use AI frequently or occasionally during their studies. Alongside the increasing use of AI in teaching and research, the implementation of the EU Artificial Intelligence Act is approaching. The new regulations will be incorporated into Norwegian law. This means specific requirements for universities and colleges.
New Law, Specific Requirements
The Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) has prepared a report titled "KI-forordningen kort fortalt" (The AI Regulation in Brief). The document outlines elements of the EU regulation relevant to the academic sector. It is addressed to management staff and employees using AI. It also covers those responsible for internal oversight and regulatory compliance.
Senior advisor Tommy Tranvik from HK-dir emphasizes that not all institutions have analyzed the risks associated with the technology. This concerns responsibility, documentation, and oversight. The date when the Norwegian AI Act will come into force is not yet known. However, preparations should begin in advance. The report is intended to facilitate understanding of the regulations before their formal implementation.
Tranvik points out five actions that universities should take immediately. The first is mapping all uses of AI in teaching, research, and administration. The second is building competence regarding the new regulations. Institutions must also determine whether they are a system provider, an operator, or both.
The next step is to assess the risk category of the systems used. The final element is to introduce clear roles, procedures, and internal control mechanisms. The institution's role will determine the scope of its obligations, which will include risk analysis, documentation requirements, data protection, and human oversight of the system. The new regulations will apply to teaching, research, and administration.
Senior advisor Tommy Tranvik from HK-dir emphasizes that not all institutions have analyzed the risks associated with the technology. This concerns responsibility, documentation, and oversight. The date when the Norwegian AI Act will come into force is not yet known. However, preparations should begin in advance. The report is intended to facilitate understanding of the regulations before their formal implementation.
Tranvik points out five actions that universities should take immediately. The first is mapping all uses of AI in teaching, research, and administration. The second is building competence regarding the new regulations. Institutions must also determine whether they are a system provider, an operator, or both.
The next step is to assess the risk category of the systems used. The final element is to introduce clear roles, procedures, and internal control mechanisms. The institution's role will determine the scope of its obligations, which will include risk analysis, documentation requirements, data protection, and human oversight of the system. The new regulations will apply to teaching, research, and administration.
Strengthening internal control will become essential.Photo: pxhere.com
Universities Begin Preparations
Østfold University College began preparations two years ago. It is currently running a three-year project related to AI. Two new staff members responsible for developing competencies and AI-based services have joined the team. The university is focusing on training and developing guidelines.
This spring, HiØ will launch its own rules for the use of AI during exams. The inspiration came from solutions at the University of Tromsø. The goal is to foster dialogue on the responsible use of technology. University representatives point out the difference between AI as an educational tool and AI as a means of simplifying tasks. This distinction is important for creating regulations.
HK-dir announces that the report will be updated with the publication of new guidelines from the EU and Norwegian authorities. Institutions will have to continuously adapt their procedures. The process of implementing the regulations will become part of digitalization management in higher education. For many universities, this will be the first comprehensive review of AI use across the entire organization.
This spring, HiØ will launch its own rules for the use of AI during exams. The inspiration came from solutions at the University of Tromsø. The goal is to foster dialogue on the responsible use of technology. University representatives point out the difference between AI as an educational tool and AI as a means of simplifying tasks. This distinction is important for creating regulations.
HK-dir announces that the report will be updated with the publication of new guidelines from the EU and Norwegian authorities. Institutions will have to continuously adapt their procedures. The process of implementing the regulations will become part of digitalization management in higher education. For many universities, this will be the first comprehensive review of AI use across the entire organization.
How do you rate this article?