UWI speaks out against use of Coat of Arms in AI-generated graduation photos

The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus says it does not condone the use of its Coat of Arms in AI-generated graduation photographs, which have been circulating online.

The university held its graduation ceremonies last week, with some graduates posting their official graduation photographs online to celebrate their achievements.

Some AI-generated graduation photographs have also emerged online, including those shared by social media content creators such as popular creator Bad Sekki, whose real name is Karlando Bailey.

His image has sparked discussions online, with some commending his humour while others criticised the photograph.

The UWI, in a statement on Monday, came out against the use of its official Coat of Arms in that manner.

The university said that while it recognises the creativity behind the images and the ambition they reflect; this should not be done.

Reproducing the emblem without the university’s prior approval breaches university policy, even when the images are intended as humour, it said.

“The University welcomes the fact that so many people want to share in the graduation moment. A graduation photograph captures the moment that expresses years of hard work. We should never make light of what it took to get there. The greater lesson here is the need for more opportunities for teaching and learning. The UWI is well positioned to help more people pursue a university education,” said Rajae Danvers, Head of Marketing, Communications and Alumni Partnerships at The UWI Mona.

“Our brand is important to us. It represents the apex of academic excellence and stands at the intersection of research and advocacy, all buttressed by hard work and commitment. We understand why people would want to associate themselves with The UWI. When our Coat of Arms appears on a simulated graduation photograph, it can make the image look like an official University record. Anyone wishing to reproduce the Coat of Arms must first obtain the University’s express authorization,” he added.

The UWI stated that adding its Coat of Arms to a simulated graduation photograph can give viewers the impression that the university issued the image or awarded the degree it depicts.

It noted that the university reserves the right to request the correction or removal of misleading material bearing the emblem.

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