Carleton University Staff Rally for AI Protections in 'Keep Carleton Human' Campaign
Staff members at Carleton University in Ottawa have taken a stand against the unchecked integration of artificial intelligence in academic settings. On January 22, 2026, a union representing university employees organized a rally under the banner 'Keep Carleton Human', pushing for concrete protections from AI technologies that they fear could undermine job security and human oversight.
Growing Concerns Over AI in Academia
The rally highlights escalating worries among university staff about the rapid adoption of AI systems across campus operations. Participants expressed fears that artificial intelligence could lead to job displacement, reduced quality in education, and a loss of human touch in administrative and teaching roles. This movement reflects a broader national conversation about balancing technological advancement with workforce stability.
Demands for Policy Safeguards
Union representatives at the event called for the implementation of clear policies to govern AI use at Carleton University. Key demands include:
- Transparency in AI deployment to ensure staff are informed about how and where these technologies are being used.
- Job protection measures to prevent AI from replacing human roles without adequate consultation or retraining opportunities.
- Ethical guidelines for AI applications in grading, student support, and research to maintain academic integrity.
- Ongoing dialogue between administration and staff to collaboratively shape the university's AI strategy.
The rally underscores a critical moment for Canadian higher education institutions as they navigate the complexities of integrating artificial intelligence while preserving human-centric values.
