TLDR: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is promoting a new free online course, ‘AI and Digital Transformation in Government,’ developed by UNESCO and the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. Starting November 10, 2025, the 12-hour self-paced program aims to equip civil servants and public leaders with the knowledge to ethically and effectively integrate AI into governance, addressing the current gap where only 21% of e-government strategies cover AI ethics.
In a significant move to bolster digital competence within public administration, UNESCO and the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School have jointly launched a free online course titled ‘AI and Digital Transformation in Government.’ The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is actively sharing this opportunity through its AGRIS initiative, aiming to reach its global community of researchers, information professionals, and public sector actors involved in agricultural knowledge sharing. The course is set to commence on November 10, 2025.
The initiative comes at a crucial time when artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how governments formulate policies and deliver essential services. A recent report by UN DESA (2024) highlights a critical challenge: a mere 21% of national e-government strategies currently address the ethical implications of AI. This statistic underscores a pressing need for guidance among civil servants worldwide, who are navigating this transformative landscape with limited resources on how to responsibly leverage AI’s potential while mitigating its inherent risks.
Designed for civil servants and public leaders across all levels, the course requires no prior technical background, making it accessible to a broad audience. Whether involved in policy development, service management, or leading digital initiatives, participants will gain practical knowledge essential for ethical and effective AI implementation in government. The program is self-paced, requiring approximately 12 hours to complete, and will be available in both English and Spanish.
Upon successful completion, graduates will be awarded a joint certificate from UNESCO and the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, acknowledging their commitment to responsible digital governance. The curriculum is structured into six comprehensive modules:
1. Foundations of Digital Transformation and AI
2. Data as a Public Asset
3. Human Rights and Ethics of AI
4. Governance for Trustworthy AI and Digital Systems
5. Designing Inclusive, People-Centric Services
6. Leading Digital Transformation in Government
Also Read:
- UNESCO and Oxford University Partner to Offer Free Online Course on AI and Digital Transformation in Government
- Mexico’s ‘Modelo México’ Initiative to Bolster Ethical AI in Private Sector
This educational offering aligns perfectly with FAO AGRIS’s mission to expand access to data-driven knowledge, thereby supporting evidence-based policymaking and fostering a more informed and capable public sector in the era of digital transformation.
