The Maldives National University (MNU) has strengthened its efforts to modernise administrative operations through a professional development workshop titled “Smart Workdays: Automating Everyday Tasks with AI,” introducing staff to practical artificial intelligence and automation tools designed to improve productivity, communication, and workplace efficiency.
Facilitated by Mohamed Jailam, Chief of Javaabu Academy, the workshop highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in transforming everyday administrative responsibilities. The programme focused on making emerging technologies more accessible to staff, enabling them to explore practical solutions for routine workplace challenges and adapt to an increasingly digital professional environment.
A central focus of the training was introducing fundamental AI and automation concepts and demonstrating their potential applications in administrative work. Participants explored how accessible digital tools can support professional communication, reduce repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and improve time management, allowing staff to organise their responsibilities more effectively.
A key highlight of the workshop was the introduction of Dhivehi GPT, drawing attention to the importance of locally relevant AI solutions in supporting Dhivehi-language administrative tasks. The session encouraged participants to consider how language-accessible technologies could contribute to more efficient communication and documentation within the Maldivian workplace.
To extend learning beyond the training session, participants who completed the workshop were offered one month of complimentary access to Dhivehi GPT. This opportunity was intended to encourage independent exploration, reinforce newly introduced skills, and help staff identify practical applications of AI within their respective administrative roles.
Beyond technical knowledge, the programme emphasised the importance of building digital confidence and fostering a culture of continuous professional learning. By encouraging staff to experiment with emerging technologies, the initiative aimed to strengthen their ability to respond to evolving workplace demands and contribute to more innovative administrative practices.
The workshop also underscored the wider potential of AI-enabled workflows to support institutional efficiency and responsive university services. Developing staff competencies in automation and digital communication can contribute to more organised operations while supporting the university’s broader digital transformation efforts.
Aligned with priorities of quality education, digital literacy, lifelong learning, decent work, technological innovation, local language inclusion, workforce capacity development, and institutional efficiency, the initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to building a digitally skilled and future-ready administrative workforce capable of supporting effective and sustainable university operations.
