New Ideas Concerning Arts and Social Studies Vol. 6

This pilot phenomenological qualitative study explored how five secretaries from a selected Lesotho government ministry perceived job security amid the emerging, though informal, use of AI-powered administrative tools in their daily work. Guided by an interpretivist stance and informed by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) frameworks, the study employed a purposive non-probability sampling and conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews to capture participants’ lived experiences. Data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Three dominant themes emerged: (1) fear of role displacement; (2) competency gaps, notably limited digital skills and lack of training; and (3) structural limitations, including inadequate infrastructure, weak communication and unclear policy direction. Participants acknowledged the efficiency improvements associated with AI tools but voiced concerns about future roles; inadequate training, limited organisational support and the absence of clear digital transformation plans. Based on the findings, the study recommended a focused strategy that combines targeted reskilling, structured capacity-building and clear, policy-driven digital integration to enable secure and meaningful adoption of AI tools while preserving the secretaries’ distinct professional roles. As a small pilot, the findings were context-specific, and their transferability to other settings should be assessed rather than assumed; nonetheless, they offer applicable, evidence-based guidance for ministries pursuing inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. The study contributed deep insights into AI tools adoption and job security within African public service environments and identifies priorities for policy, training and change management to inform subsequent large-scale qualitative research.