Why must HR change before technology does?

Did you ever think that Human Resource can also require AI ? It is understandable how people and systems need to evolve with it, not stand still. Where most leaders think of AI as a quick fix, the reality is that AI reflects all the strengths and weaknesses of an organization's culture. It reflects quality in data, depth in inclusion, and consistency in leadership.

Digital transformation can never be complete or successful without cultural transformation. One gap is in reskilling.

Too many companies create training programs that don't connect with real business needs. Effective reskilling starts with a rather straightforward question: what is the problem we are trying to address? Learning should be connected with productivity, agility, or innovation.

The most credible models couple assessments, AI-driven learning paths, coaching, and real workplace projects.

When capability drives results, learning turns into leadership.

Randi Zuckerberg, during the SHRM MENA Annual Conference 2025, stated that leaders of today need to "give clear stage directions" for people and AI alike to get the outcomes they want.

Then, there is the issue of bias. AI doesn't create bias; it inherits it. Correcting bias means data transparency, human intervention, and ethical controls.

This forms the foundation of "responsible AI in HR." AI brings speed and insight; people bring trust and context.

The future of work is not man versus machine. It's shared ownership. AI accelerates. People anchor.

Today, four generations work together in an organisation, each with their work style and motivation. Hybrid workplaces give more flexibility but also more isolation.

That's where the opportunity is: creating cohesion through mentoring and shared purpose. Studies have demonstrated that intergenerational learning raises engagement and teamwork.

It's not about one generation teaching the others in the leadership of today; it's cross-learning.

Employees also expect more from work. A purpose-driven EVP needs to offer growth, belonging, and impact. Purpose should be measurable, not a slogan.

It needs to be matched by skill commitments from the employees. Work is meaningful when both sides give and get.

Women in leadership require more than policy support.

There has been a start at structural progress, but there are still cultural barriers. Bias often comes through in tone or feedback or in networks.

Programs such as SHRM's leadership journeys at Indian Oil Corporation and SAIL show what works: assessment, coaching and community. These journeys create confidence and long-term peer networks.

HR is shaping socio-economic progress in today's times. It fosters employability, youth skilling, and inclusion.

SHRM links international standards to regional requirements through programs like Mission Karmayogi and cooperation with the B20 India Task Force.

The key to the future of HR in APAC and MENA is striking a balance between local practices and global principles. Capability, engagement, and business outcomes will be used to gauge the impact. Future skills, diversity as a national advantage, and AI readiness are three areas that urgently need attention in order to prepare future workforces. The message is clear: organizations that view people and technology as equal partners in progress will be the ones doing the next phase of work.