The United Nations has announced a new initiative aimed at educating governmental bodies about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to foster innovation in the public sector. This effort comes through a partnership with the Exponential Science Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the adoption of advanced technologies.
Unveiling the Government Blockchain Academy, set to launch in the upcoming year, the U.N. Development Programme (UNDP) aims to provide essential training on how AI and blockchain can help tackle significant development challenges. Operating across 170 countries, the UNDP’s mission is to eradicate poverty and inequality through sustainable development practices.
Key focus areas for the academy will include enhancing access to financial services, mitigating corruption by utilizing tamper-proof record-keeping methods, ensuring transparency in the funding of climate change initiatives, and developing solutions for digital identity. “This is not just an educational initiative. It’s a collective blueprint for public innovation,” stated Paolo Tasca, Executive Chair of the Exponential Science Foundation. He emphasized that the collaboration among different partners will equip governments with the necessary tools and expertise to navigate the impending wave of digital transformation.
In addition to in-person and online training, the Global Blockchain Academy will also offer incubation programs and expert mentorship, ensuring participants have practical support as they implement these technologies.
While the exact details of the launch date are yet to be clarified, a formal announcement is anticipated during the upcoming TOKEN2049 blockchain and cryptocurrency conference, scheduled to take place in Singapore on October 1-2. This event will include an industry roundtable aimed at garnering support for the initiative.
The establishment of the Government Blockchain Academy coincides with a growing trend among various nations exploring the potential of emerging technologies to enhance public sector operations. Notably, Estonia has leveraged blockchain to secure health records and streamline judicial, legislative, and security systems. Similarly, the United Arab Emirates introduced a blockchain strategy in 2018 to transition government transactions onto the blockchain, while the United States has begun publishing economic data utilizing this technology.
As countries increasingly recognize the advantages of AI and blockchain, the UNDP’s initiative aims to ensure governments are prepared to embrace these technologies for the benefit of public innovation and accountability.
