Human-centered AI: advancing ethical, transparent, and context-aware systems for sustainable development

Human-Centered AI (HCAI) represents a transformative approach to artificial intelligence development, focusing on aligning AI systems with human values, societal needs, and ethical standards. This paper explores the key frameworks, challenges, and opportunities associated with HCAI, emphasizing its application across diverse domains such as healthcare, urban planning, agriculture, and education. HCAI-driven innovations, including Human-Centered Generative AI, Human-AI Co-Creation, and Explainable AI, are enhancing creativity, trust, and decision-making in both individual and collaborative contexts. The paper identifies critical challenges, including technical limitations, ethical concerns, human-AI interaction issues, and data privacy concerns, which must be addressed to ensure effective and ethical AI deployment. It also highlights the role of interdisciplinary research and cross-sector collaboration in overcoming these challenges and advancing HCAI applications. Looking ahead, the integration of AI with big data, longitudinal studies, and real-time evaluations will play a pivotal role in refining AI systems and ensuring their long-term success. By adopting a socio-technical approach and fostering public participation in AI design, HCAI can promote more sustainable, equitable, and human-centric technological development. Ultimately, the paper argues that HCAI has the potential to drive innovation in ways that enhance human capabilities, build trust, and contribute positively to societal well-being.