UNESCO and FARI Join Forces for a Global MOOC on AI and Digital Transformation in Government 

A Worldwide Initiative for Public Sector Innovation 

In June 2025, UNESCO and the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford launched a global capacity-building initiative, “AI and Digital Transformation in Government.” This Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) aims to empower civil servants and public sector leaders across the world to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Developed collaboratively with over 50 partner organizations – including FARI – AI for the Common Good Institute Brussels (ULB & VUB), the course represents a milestone in advancing responsible, inclusive, and human-rights-based approaches to public sector innovation. 

About the MOOC 

The UNESCO–Oxford MOOC is part of the SPARK-AI Alliance initiative, a global network of Schools of Public Administration and Research Institutions from more than 50 countries. The Alliance’s mission is to strengthen public sector capacities in the use of AI and digital technologies through shared expertise, curriculum development, and capacity-building initiatives. 

The course provides approximately twelve hours of guided learning and is accessible to professionals of all levels, regardless of their technical background. Participants explore critical topics such as: 

– AI and human rights 

– Ethics and data governance 

– Inclusive service design 

– Leadership for digital transformation 

– Practical applications of generative AI tools 

Upon completion, learners receive a joint certificate from UNESCO and the University of Oxford, recognizing their commitment to responsible and ethical innovation within the public sector. 

FARI’s Contribution 

FARI – AI for the Common Good Institute (ULB & VUB) proudly serves as a formal institutional partner of the SPARK-AI Alliance. Representing Brussels and the Brussels-Capital Region’s ecosystem of innovation, FARI co-developed content for the MOOC by sharing its knowledge, insights, and awareness of local practices in AI and digital transformation. 

In alignment with its mission to advance the responsible and ethical use of AI, FARI also seeks to integrate the MOOC’s educational objectives into its own initiatives, such as the FARI Conference and the Data Stewardship Bootcamp. Through this synergy, FARI aims to strengthen the adoption of responsible AI practices and foster a culture of digital transformation across the region. 

Through this collaboration, FARI reinforces its commitment to advancing ethical, inclusive, and human-centered digital transformation – locally in Brussels and globally through the SPARK-AI Alliance.  

Links

– YouTube Video: AI and digital transformation in government course

– Registration Link: https://oxsbs.link/unesco