Getting started with AI

Last changed: 28 March 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is technology that uses computers to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. This includes everything from voice and image recognition to decision-making and problem solving. AI uses large amounts of data and advanced algorithms to learn, adapt and perform various tasks.

AI is developing rapidly, meaning it is difficult to predict how SLU will be using AI in the long run. Nevertheless, we are certain that AI will change parts of our organisation in different ways, so we must monitor developments and test tools that can rationalise administrative tasks, help us analyse large amounts of data or assure the quality of processes, and more.

In May 2024, the EU passed the AI Act, a regulation to govern AI use and make sure that its development and use is both ethical and secure. The act is in place to ensure that AI systems used in the EU are secure, transparent, traceable, non-discriminatory and environmentally friendly. As a Swedish public authority, SLU must ensure that we use AI based on the requirements stipulated in the regulation.

What can staff do?

The key advice to all staff is try to stay up to date on AI developments relating to your particular tasks. Think about the benefits of AI to your work. With this in mind, we encourage you to try out at least one of the free AI tools available.

What is SLU doing?

SLU has established a digitalisation group monitoring AI’s development. The group has also appointed a test group from the university administration to try out and evaluate Copilot, one of the biggest models on the market.

We may eventually purchase campus licences for certain tools, however we have not yet assessed these tools enough for us to be able to determine which tools these may be. Those wishing to test specific tools must therefore calculate any costs as part of their own budgets.