In higher education in Hungary, as in many other countries, artificial intelligence (AI) guidelines designed to support teachers and students in addressing new ethical and practical challenges have been introduced slowly and sporadically. This study aims to examine the current implementation of AI-related policies in Hungarian higher education and the role of Centers for Teaching and Learning (CTLs) in supporting educators in integrating AI into teaching, learning, and institutional practices.

The study is based on two recent investigations. In the second half of 2024, an online questionnaire survey was conducted with the leaders of CTLs, with 56% of the 63 institutions providing detailed feedback on their educational development activities. The survey included both self-developed questions and adaptations from the European project “Staff Development for Learning and Teaching at European Universities,” aiming to explore AI-related CTL initiatives. A follow-up study in the first half of 2025 analyzed the websites of Hungarian universities to identify where and in what form AI policies related to education and research are available. Content analysis was used to identify common topics in the guidelines and highlight gaps.

The results indicate that CTLs play a pivotal role in helping educators and institutions acquire the knowledge and competencies needed to implement AI-driven innovations. While only a few institutions have developed formal AI guidelines, these are often faculty-specific; over time, more detailed, comprehensive, and multi-perspective recommendations (involving both faculty and students) have emerged.

Finally, the study presents a case of a dedicated AI course for educators, designed to implement the institutional AI policy. This course illustrates how CTLs and institutional initiatives can effectively support AI-enhanced teaching practices, aligning with current international trends and the growing need for innovation in higher education. The course provides practical insights into AI policy design, implementation, and its direct application in creating more up-to-date and effective teaching strategies.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, higher education, ICT, digital competence.