AHRP collaborates with SHRM to introduce pioneering Generative AI workshop for HR professionals

From left: SHRM India, APAC and MENA Chief Executive Officer Achal Khanna, AHRP President Roshan Kulasuriya and AHRP External Alliances Vice President Oshana Dias

Sri Lanka’s only professional network of practising human resource professionals, the Association of Human Resource Professionals (AHRP), has announced the introduction of a workshop focused on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) for local HR professionals. 

This pioneering initiative, conducted in partnership with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), aims to equip Sri Lankan HR practitioners with advanced techniques, insights, and tools necessary to harness the power of AI, particularly Generative AI, in revolutionising HR practices.

The program, meticulously crafted by industry experts, will delve into practical implementations across the Employee Lifecycle (ELC), covering areas such as talent attraction, acquisition, management, engagement, development, and performance management. Furthermore, it will help participants develop proficiency in contemporary Generative AI methodologies that enhance HR procedures, fostering agility, efficiency and 

effectiveness.

SHRM India, APAC and MENA Chief Executive Officer Achal Khanna said: “The excitement over generative AI in the workplace is palpable. As companies rush to implement generative AI capabilities, understanding the technology’s potential to deliver value will help shape critical decisions. Businesses must maximise ROI, stay competitive in a digital landscape, and manage workforce transformations amidst the greatest technology shift of this generation. While embracing generative AI is imperative for a business, it is essential to approach its adoption responsibly. Addressing ethical considerations, ensuring transparency, and providing appropriate training are crucial aspects of a successful AI integration 

strategy.”

“In such a context, introducing this workshop for Sri Lankan HR professionals will equip them with the right tools and techniques to confidently apply the power of AI, especially generative AI. The program, which is being brought in partnership with AHRP, will further help HR professionals to analyse emerging trends in business and the workplace that are driving the adoption of data and technology for HR Transformation, further enabling them to understand the necessary HR skills and identify potential HR roles for the future,” she said further.

The workshop will teach participants how to employ people analytics for strategic insights and informed HR decision-making and address ethical considerations and data privacy concerns while leveraging technology and analytics. It will highlight practical examples, scenarios, and case studies, illustrating effective HR transformations that have benefited various companies and sectors.

The workshop which began on 5 March 2024 will have three online sessions over two months, ensuring ample time for participants to delve into each lesson, engage with course materials, complete assignments and apply their learning in real-world scenarios. Upon successful completion, participants will receive an exclusive digital credential to showcase on their respective social media handles.

AHRP President Roshan Kulasuriya said: “I am excited to announce our upcoming program on AI, a collaboration with a globally accredited world body, SHRM, that promises to redefine the landscape of HR management. In today’s fast-paced world, staying competent means understanding the transformative power of AI in HR functions. This program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate this evolving terrain effectively. This is an opportunity to stay ahead in the field and ensure your relevance in shaping the future of HR.”

AHRP External Alliances Vice President Oshana Dias said: “We are thrilled to partner with SHRM to offer this transformative program for our local HR champions. As the HR landscape evolves, professionals must embrace emerging technologies like AI to drive organisational success. This program will empower HR practitioners with the skills and knowledge to leverage AI effectively, ultimately enhancing HR’s strategic impact. I want to applaud companies such as John Keells Holdings, Aitken Spence, SLT, HSBC, Dialog Axiata, Hayleys, Nestles, MAS Holdings, Hsenid, IFS HNB and Fortude for investing in upskilling their HR professionals through participation in the 

program.”

The workshop will be facilitated by a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach Sriram Iyer with over two decades of experience in the ICT sector. Between 2005 and 2017, Sriram managed talent functions across crucial Asia Pacific and Middle East markets for Nasdaq-listed Cognizant Technology Solutions and NCS (a Singtel Group Enterprise) in the areas of workforce planning and strategy, talent attraction and acquisition, talent supply chain and internal mobility. A passionate HRTech advocate, Sriram has strong exposure to the HR Technology advisory and implementation aspect of the business, having conceptualised and grown hrtech.sg to become Singapore’s largest, curated HRTech marketplace with over 140 solution providers.