UN Technology Bank and KAUST launch AI leadership training for Least Developed Countries
Date: 2026-02-09
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
UN Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries has launched a high-level
leadership training programme focused on artificial intelligence and
sustainable development for senior government officials from Least Developed
Countries (LDCs).
The
programme, titled AI
for Impact: Training Leaders in Least Developed Countries, is being held from 9 to 12 February
2026 at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal,
Saudi Arabia. It brings together 26 senior policymakers from key government
ministries across seven LDCs: Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, Uganda, Zambia, The
Gambia, and Malawi.
Jointly
organised by the UN Technology Bank and KAUST, the initiative aims to
strengthen strategic leadership and policy capacity on artificial intelligence
and emerging technologies. Participants are engaging in discussions to deepen
their understanding of AI, examine practical applications in sectors such as
healthcare, agriculture, and public service delivery, and advance national
approaches to AI governance, ethics, and institutional readiness.
The
programme is designed to support participating countries in laying the
groundwork for future national AI strategies, while fostering international
cooperation and knowledge exchange on the responsible use of artificial
intelligence for sustainable development.
