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How can humanitarian organisations bridge the AI readiness gap through critical thinking and localised approaches?

Humanitarian organisations face a critical challenge: while individual staff members are racing ahead with AI experimentation in their daily work. 

According to new research from NetHope, only around 9% of nonprofit organisations report being fully ready for systematic AI adoption. This gap between individual curiosity and institutional preparedness isn't just about access to tools - it's about building the right competencies to use AI responsibly and effectively.

In this episode, guest host Madigan Johnson from Data Friendly Space speaks with Meheret Takele Mandefro, Business Analyst at NetHope's Centre for the Digital Nonprofit. Drawing from her powerful journey - from witnessing educational inequality in rural Ethiopia to experiencing digital isolation during conflict - Meheret brings a unique perspective on what AI literacy truly means for the humanitarian sector.

Drawing from NetHope's AI Readiness Benchmark research, Meheret reveals the challenge isn't technological - it's human, strategic, and deeply contextual.

Tune in for a practical, grounded conversation exploring:

• Why AI literacy must go beyond technical skills: The often-overlooked competencies of critical thinking, ethical decision-making, cultural intelligence, and change leadership
• The critical role of culturally sensitive, localised approaches: How AI can complement rather than replace traditional knowledge systems and indigenous wisdom
• Balancing urgency with competency development: Dual-track approaches that deploy safe AI tools for immediate needs whilst building long-term skills through iterative practice
• How blended learning ecosystems truly work: Integrating formal training with peer-to-peer learning, working groups, and real-world case studies
• Plus, practical guidance: How smaller organisations can begin their AI literacy journey and why the sector needs to think critically about whether, when, and how to adopt AI
  
  

Visit the episode webpage for show notes including speaker bios and full transcript:
www.humanitarianleadershipacademy.org/resources/humanitarian-ai-podcast-series-developing-ai-literacy-a-matter-of-trust-critical-thinking-and-localisation

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The views and opinions expressed in our podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of their organisations.