The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), in partnership with the UNDP AI Hub for Sustainable Development, Google and Apolitical, has launched a free artificial intelligence training programme for public officials across Africa.
The programme, launched on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, is designed to help government officials better understand and apply AI in areas including public service delivery, digital infrastructure, public-private partnerships and innovation.
Delivered through Apolitical’s Government AI Campus, the self-paced programme includes courses covering AI fundamentals, the opportunities and risks associated with AI in government, AI leadership and public trust, as well as the use of AI in government procurement.
The courses were developed by Stanford University Online and SDA Bocconi School of Management, while Google and Apolitical are providing the learning platform and content.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Africa’s capacity to adopt AI and develop the skills and governance systems needed to support its use across the public sector.
It also follows recommendations from an African Development Bank report, Africa’s AI Productivity Gain: Pathways to Labour Efficiency, Economic Growth and Inclusive Transformation. The Bank’s report estimates that inclusive AI deployment could contribute up to $1 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2035, while identifying skills and trusted governance among the key requirements for achieving those gains.
According to the AfDB, enrolment is open and free for serving government officials and public servants in its regional member countries whose work involves AI in public service delivery, digital infrastructure, public-private partnerships or innovation.
The programme is part of the wider AI Hub for Sustainable Development, a G7-endorsed initiative co-led by UNDP and Italy’s Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy. The AfDB is a founding member of the Hub’s Executive Steering Group.
