The Maldives National University (MNU) has expanded opportunities for administrative staff to develop artificial intelligence and automation skills through an additional session of “Smart Workdays: Automating Everyday Tasks with AI,” featuring practical applications of emerging technologies and access to Dhivehi-language AI tools.

Led by Mohamed Jailam, Chief of Javaabu Academy, the workshop focused on helping administrative personnel explore accessible AI-powered solutions to improve workplace communication, simplify repetitive tasks, and manage time more effectively. The initiative reflects the growing importance of digital literacy and technological adaptability in strengthening administrative efficiency and modernising university services.

A key highlight of the programme was the introduction of Dhivehi GPT, an AI tool designed to support work involving the Dhivehi language. By exploring locally relevant technology, the session highlighted opportunities to make AI applications more accessible and useful within the Maldivian administrative context.

The workshop also examined how automation can support everyday responsibilities, encouraging participants to identify routine processes where AI tools could help reduce manual workloads, improve organisation, and support more efficient working practices. Emphasis was placed on building staff confidence in experimenting with emerging technologies and identifying applications relevant to their professional roles.

In a move to encourage continued learning beyond the workshop, participants who completed the session were offered one month of free access to Dhivehi GPT. The initiative provided an opportunity for staff to further explore the platform, practise newly introduced skills, and assess its potential usefulness in their daily administrative responsibilities.

The additional training session also underscored MNU’s emphasis on extending professional development opportunities across its administrative workforce. By combining practical AI awareness with opportunities for independent exploration, the programme sought to support a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and digital adaptability.

Beyond individual productivity, the workshop highlighted the potential of AI-supported administrative practices to strengthen institutional responsiveness and service delivery. Equipping staff with relevant technological skills can contribute to more organised workflows and help university services adapt to changing operational demands.

The initiative aligns with broader priorities of digital literacy, lifelong learning, decent work, technological innovation, workforce capacity development, local language accessibility, and institutional efficiency. Through continued investment in AI-related professional development, MNU aims to build a digitally confident and future-ready administrative workforce capable of supporting more effective and responsive university operations.