Proficiency of records practitioners using artificial intelligence to enhance records management practices at the Gauteng Department of Education in South Africa

Purpose This study aims to examine the proficiency of records practitioners in using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance records management practices at the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach This study utilised a convergent mixed-methods research approach, using interviews and questionnaires for data collection. Analysis of the collected data involved both verbatim and statistical methods, and the results were presented through tables and figures. Findings This study revealed that none of the GDE records management practitioners had the skills and competencies to manage records using AI. However, the study also unveiled that the GDE practitioners possessed foundational technical skills that could serve as a strong foundation for the introduction of AI. Originality/value Therefore, the study proposed a comprehensive framework that can assist in upskilling records management practitioners to effectively manage records using AI. This framework can be adopted by archives and records management institutions that are interested in leveraging AI for effective records management.