Professionals working in digital policy, artificial intelligence, information and communications technology, data governance and public-sector transformation have an opportunity to strengthen their skills through a free online training course offered by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Academy in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Responsible Digital Transformation: Impact Assessments for AI and Data Governance course is designed to help policymakers and practitioners understand how artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies can be assessed for potential risks and impacts before or during implementation. The four-week training will run from 6 October to 27 October 2026 and will be delivered in English. Applications are open until 19 September 2026. About the ITU and UNDP AI and Data Governance Training As governments increasingly adopt artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure and data-driven systems, there is growing demand for professionals who understand both the opportunities and risks associated with these technologies. The ITU Academy and UNDP course focuses on responsible digital transformation, particularly the practical assessment of AI and data governance initiatives. Rather than concentrating only on general principles of responsible AI, the training is designed to equip participants with practical tools that can be applied to real governance decisions. Participants will explore issues such as fairness, transparency, accountability, inclusion and human rights in the context of digital transformation. The course builds on UNDP’s Human Rights Impact Assessment (HRIA) methodology and guides participants through a structured approach for evaluating a digital or AI use case. What Will Participants Learn? The training covers several important areas relevant to professionals working with emerging digital technologies. Participants will learn how to identify and assess risks associated with AI and data governance, while developing a stronger understanding of the relationship between digital transformation and human rights. Key areas of learning include: AI and data governance risks Impact assessment tools and methodologies Human rights considerations in digital transformation Risk identification and mitigation Governance safeguards Assessment of real-world AI and digital use cases Development of practical mitigation and governance recommendations By the end of the course, participants are expected to have developed a draft impact assessment and mitigation plan based on a real-world digital or AI governance use case relevant to their institutional environment. This practical component can help participants translate concepts learned during the training into tools that can potentially be applied in their professional roles. Who Can Apply? The online training is particularly relevant to professionals involved in public-sector digital transformation, policymaking and technology governance. Potential participants include: Government officials Policymakers Development professionals AI and ICT professionals Digital transformation specialists Data governance professionals Professionals working in technology policy and regulation Applicants are expected to have a relevant academic degree or at least three years of related professional experience. A basic understanding of digital systems and artificial intelligence is also expected. Since the course is delivered in English, participants should have sufficient English-language proficiency to actively engage with the training materials, sessions and learning activities. The organisers encourage applications from women and participants from developing countries, including professionals from least developed countries, small island developing states and landlocked developing countries. Course Format and Duration The programme is delivered online, making it accessible to eligible professionals who may not be able to travel for an in-person training programme. The course lasts four weeks, from 6 October to 27 October 2026, and includes five live sessions. The training is offered at an intermediate level, making it particularly suitable for professionals who already have some knowledge or experience in digital technologies, policy, governance or related areas. Participants will have opportunities to engage with expert-led learning and peer interaction while working on practical applications of AI impact assessment. What Will Participants Gain? Successful participants can develop practical knowledge that is increasingly valuable as governments and organisations introduce AI-powered systems into public services. The course can help participants strengthen their ability to identify potential risks before digital technologies are deployed and develop appropriate mitigation and governance measures. Participants will also gain experience working through an impact assessment process based on a real-world use case. According to the provided course information, participants who successfully complete the training will receive an ITU certificate. The practical experience gained through the programme can also provide a useful addition to professional development portfolios, particularly for individuals working in AI policy, digital governance, ICT regulation and public-sector transformation. Training Cost One of the key features of the opportunity is its zero tuition cost. The course price is listed as US$0, with the training supported through the Global Gateway strategy of the European Union. This makes the programme particularly attractive to professionals seeking high-quality international training without the financial costs normally associated with specialised executive or professional development programmes. Important Dates Applicants should take note of the following dates: Application period: 11 August – 19 September 2026Training period: 6 October – 27 October 2026Duration: 4 weeksLive sessions: 5Mode: OnlineLanguage: EnglishLevel: IntermediateCost: Free Applicants should submit their registrations before the 19 September 2026 deadline and review the official registration information carefully to confirm the requirements and application process. How to Apply Professionals interested in responsible AI, data governance and digital transformation can review the official course information and registration documentation through the ITU Academy. The programme offers an opportunity for participants to move beyond theoretical discussions about responsible AI and gain practical experience in assessing risks, identifying impacts and developing mitigation strategies. For policymakers and professionals preparing for the growing role of artificial intelligence in government and public services, the training could provide valuable knowledge for supporting more responsible, inclusive and human-rights-centred digital transformation. Interested applicants should therefore review the eligibility requirements and submit their applications before 19 September 2026. VISIT OFFICIAL COURSE PAGE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. 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