FAO Launches CertusCare Pilot to Modernize HR with AI
The FAO Director-General, QU Dongyu, has introduced CertusCare, a new AI-powered HR chatbot, marking a clear move toward a more digital and modern workforce. This initiative builds on FAO’s digital transformation efforts that began in 2019 and accelerated during the pandemic, now evolving to incorporate artificial intelligence.
Addressing FAO staff worldwide, the Director-General highlighted the swift progress of AI technology, stating, “The AI generation has come!” This reflects the growing presence of AI in everyday tasks, and FAO’s commitment to using these advancements to support its employees better.
What CertusCare Brings to HR
CertusCare is a collaborative creation by the FAO Human Resources Division, Digital FAO, and Agro-Informatics teams. It aims to simplify workplace interactions by embedding intelligence directly into daily HR operations. The chatbot is multilingual, mobile-friendly, and integrated into Microsoft Teams, ensuring 24/7 support for staff across all FAO locations.
The name CertusCare is derived from the Latin “certus,” meaning reliable or assured, combined with “care” to emphasize a human-centered approach to HR services. This reflects FAO’s focus on providing dependable and accessible support to its workforce.
Key Features for HR Professionals
- Instant access to essential HR information including pensions, medical insurance, and service-incurred compensation
- Natural, conversational interface to reduce response times and improve user experience
- Multilingual support to accommodate FAO’s global workforce
- 24/7 availability through Microsoft Teams, making HR assistance accessible anytime, anywhere
- Scalable platform designed for future expansion across all HR functions and policies
By integrating CertusCare, FAO moves closer to a digital workplace where HR services are more accessible and responsive. This initiative also reflects a commitment to transparency and careful management of AI risks, with human oversight remaining a priority.
Looking Ahead
The Director-General encouraged staff to embrace this innovation, citing a Chinese proverb: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” He emphasized the importance of learning and improving the system together, building trust and transparency along the way.
The launch of CertusCare sets a benchmark for AI innovation within international organizations. FAO aims to lead by example within the UN system, creating a smarter, more reliable, and caring environment for all employees.
For HR professionals interested in AI applications and digital tools, exploring comprehensive AI training can provide valuable skills to stay ahead. Resources like Complete AI Training offer courses on AI tools, automation, and chatbot integration that can support modern HR functions.
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