As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms global operations, the UN system and international organizations must equip their personnel with the skills to responsibly understand, apply, and benefit from AI technologies. Developed and operated by the UNICC AI Hub, the AI Academy aims to close the AI literacy gap across UN entities by launching a structured, multi-partner pilot initiative aligned with the UN 2.0 and based on the WFP’s Data and AI Competency Framework.

Digital Agricultural Technologies (DATs) are innovations that enable farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs to leapfrog to increase their productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness, facilitate access to markets, improve nutritional outcomes and enhance resilience to climate change. These technologies range from mobile apps to digital identities for farmers to solar applications for agriculture to portable agriculture devices. DATs are increasingly becoming indispensable in the global food and agriculture sector, from fast and convenient information delivery to providing virtual marketplaces. Considering the fact that digital technologies can accelerate agro-food outcomes is juxtaposed with low adoption rates of the same, the World Bank’s operations are increasingly incorporating digital agriculture as a critical element in its operations. Thus, it is important to study digital agriculture technologies in further detail. This five-week course will provide a high-level overview of DAT concepts, potential impact, range of technologies available, used cases as well as forward-looking technologies. The course will introduce the participants to different agriculture data platforms already available and will encourage them to discover the scope and utility of the open data platforms for analytics and intelligence in agriculture. Participants will be required to engage in discussion forums with their peers and complete quizzes throughout the course.

This self-paced training course offers an introductory exploration of strategic foresight tailored to individuals engaged in fostering digital innovation for sustainable development. With a focus on bridging the digital divide and addressing global challenges, the course emphasizes the crucial role of strategic foresight in shaping equitable futures. Through seven modules, participants delve into essential concepts, tools, and terminology while honing practical skills in futures thinking. The course equips learners with the competencies to integrate strategic foresight into their specific domains, fostering strategic thinking and innovation in digital development initiatives. By recognizing the value of strategic foresight processes, participants gain insights to drive meaningful change in their projects, policies, and strategies, ultimately contributing to the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

OpenAI released a primer on their generative AI technology for beginners. It's accessible and free.