Training for an artificial intelligence (AI) bot that will help address the high call volume at the Jamaican consulate in New York, United States, is underway.

Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith gave an update on the initiative at Friday’s meeting of the senate.

She explained that last year, the consulate received 2.2 million calls, a large number of which went unanswered.

To address the issue, use of an AI tool was proposed.

The AI bot, named Jacob, is being taught how to respond to common questions regarding visas and passports.

Mrs. Johnson Smith hopes the bot will help improve customer satisfaction at the consulate.