As artificial intelligence reshapes how governments design policies and deliver services, a critical gap has emerged: only 21% of national e-government strategies address the ethical use of AI (UN DESA, 2024). Civil servants worldwide are navigating this transformation with limited guidance on how to harness AI's potential while managing its risks responsibly.

To address this challenge, UNESCO and the University of Oxford's Saïd Business School have launched a free online course, "AI and Digital Transformation in Government", starting 10 November 2025. FAO AGRIS, an initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is pleased to share this valuable opportunity with our global community of researchers, information professionals, and public sector actors engaged in agricultural knowledge sharing.

Who should enroll?

The course is designed for civil servants and public leaders at all levels with no technical background required. Whether you're developing policies, managing services, or leading digital initiatives, this course will equip you with practical knowledge to navigate AI implementation ethically and effectively.

What you'll learn:

Over 12 hours, participants will explore six comprehensive modules covering:

• Foundations of Digital Transformation and AI
• Data as a Public Asset
• Human Rights and Ethics of AI
• Governance for Trustworthy AI and Digital Systems
• Designing Inclusive, People-Centric Services
• Leading Digital Transformation in Government

Graduates will receive a joint certificate from UNESCO and the University of Oxford's Saïd Business School, recognizing their commitment to responsible digital governance.

Why this matters for the FAO AGRIS community:

This course aligns directly with FAO AGRIS's mission to expand access to data-driven knowledge that supports evidence-based policymaking. As our community works to make agricultural research more discoverable and accessible, understanding how AI and digital tools can enhance decision-making, and build sustainable solutions becomes increasingly essential.

Course Details:

• Launch date: 10 November 2025
• Languages: English & Spanish 
• Cost: Free of charge
• Duration: 12 hours (self-paced)
• Certificate: Joint certificate from the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford and UNESCO
• Registration: https://oxsbs.link/unesco