https://archive.aessweb.com/index.php/5051 Asian Economic and Social Society en-US International Journal of Social and Administrative Sciences 2521-0556 https://archive.aessweb.com/index.php/5051/article/view/5959 <p>The purpose of the study was to explore the emerging role of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in Bhutanese higher education institutions, emphasizing its prevalence, perceived impact, and institutional responses. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study gathered data from 535 students through survey questionnaires complemented by open-ended responses. The findings indicated widespread use of GenAI tools for academic tasks, suggesting that students increasingly rely on such technologies to support learning. However, the results also highlighted several concerns associated with this trend. Participants expressed apprehension regarding diminished originality in academic work, heightened risks of plagiarism, and broader ethical challenges arising from unregulated use of GenAI. These issues underscore the need for higher education institutions to develop comprehensive awareness initiatives, targeted training programs, and clear policies to guide responsible engagement with AI-driven tools. The study argues that such measures are essential not only for safeguarding academic integrity but also for ensuring that GenAI is integrated in ways that genuinely enrich learning outcomes. Additionally, it provides practical recommendations aimed at addressing ethical risks and promoting a balanced and informed incorporation of GenAI within academic environments.</p> Dorji Kuenzang T Stephen Copyright (c) 2026 2026-04-06 2026-04-06 11 1 1 14 10.55493/5051.v11i1.5959