Since Feb. 2, 2025, the AI regulation requires (government) organizations to work on AI literacy. An important condition for the responsible deployment of AI is an adequate level of knowledge among employees who have to deal with AI. But what exactly does AI literacy entail? And what steps can you take as an organization in view of this obligation?
AI literacy is a collective term for knowledge and skills in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Think, for example, that you know how this technology works (at a basic level), where the opportunities lie and what risks are involved. So this is not just about technical knowledge, but also social, ethical and practical aspects. As a provider or user responsible for AI systems, the AI regulation (article 4) describes that organizations ensure an adequate level of AI literacy.
AI literacy: it is not only about technical knowledge, but also social, ethical, and practical aspects.
Organizations should promote an adequate level of AI literacy. The desired level of AI literacy is highly dependent on the context within which the AI application is deployed. For example, in what industry or type of work. Think of developers building AI models or the management team directing it. The goal is for all relevant individuals within organizations to be able to make informed choices regarding AI systems. Organizations should take stock of what AI systems are being used within the organization and what knowledge already exists. Based on this inventory, organizations can do the following:
Make sure employees who develop or procure AI systems have enough knowledge of how such a system works and the risks it may pose;
Make sure employees who have responsibility for using certain AI systems know how and what to use it for, and the risks involved;
All employees working with or involved in AI systems should have general knowledge about AI and algorithms. It is also important to explain the ethical and social aspects, such as risks and opportunities. In this way, you can promote responsible use of AI systems.
To work on AI literacy, there are a variety of materials available. Ranging from handouts, instructions, lectures, interactive sessions, e-learnings, courses and workshops with exercises to sharing knowledge with other organizations. Examples include:
The National AI and Ethics Course .. This online course provides a foundation for employees to join the conversation about responsible AI.
The National AI Course. In it, AI is explained in an understandable way.
The RADIO Learning Platform. This government learning platform, commissioned by CIO Rijk, offers government employees several modules, for example this one e-learning about non-discrimination.
In addition to building knowledge, you can promote AI literacy by:
To point out the AI regulation requirement for AI literacy. This can be a good way to bring the importance of AI literacy to the attention of your organization.
AI literacy as a include as standard in procurement terms and conditions. For example, by including a mandatory user manual in the procurement terms and conditions. This way you ensure that all AI systems you purchase as an organization can be used responsibly by employees.
From the European Commission is a document published with examples of practices to promote AI literacy within organizations. In addition, by the end of 2025, there will be guidelines that can help organizations increase AI literacy. Organizations are free to apply these codes of conduct or create their own. Starting in 2028, the European Commission will conduct evaluations to examine the effectiveness of the codes of conduct.
Within the government, there are also organizations working to promote AI literacy:
AI Compass Water Boards : The Union of Water Boards has developed an AI Compass. This is a governance framework to help make the right trade-offs when applying artificial intelligence.
Interprovincial Guide Digital Ethics. : This guide was prepared by the Interprovincial Consultation (IPO) and contains information on values-driven deployment of technology. The guide contains tools, examples and tips for using digital technologies in a responsible way.
Amsterdam vision of AI and Agenda Digital City: The municipality of Amsterdam, together with its residents, has developed a vision and agenda to responsibly deploy AI within the municipality. The focus here is on the effective deployment of AI and the stimulation of digital skills.
These examples serve as inspiration. They show that AI literacy depends on the context of your organization and can take different forms. In addition, the Directorate for Coordination of Algorithms (DCA) at the Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens ) has issued issued an advisory issued to help organizations get started building AI literacy. With the number of AI systems in government growing rapidly, AI literacy is becoming more important. Building literacy through your organization provides a certain protection to employees while encouraging the responsible use of AI.
