Academy

The Academy course catalogue lined out courses descriptions, outlines key learning outcomes, and highlights the topics covered in each Academy modules. 

This module explores how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) intersect with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and can support national governments' policies, plans, and programmes. It highlights key issues and decision points through case studies from Asia-Pacific countries and aims to equip policymakers and programme managers with a framework for ICT-based interventions for sustainable development and achieving the SDGs.

This module introduces inclusive digital development in an effort to raise awareness among government officials on issues related to this concept. It also explores the benefits and challenges associated with digital society, digital economy and digital policies. The module aims to help policymakers and senior civil servants identify the policies and programs needed to design, develop, and implement an inclusive digital development strategy.

This module covers ICT project management for sustainable development outcomes, introducing international standards and principles to support successful project initiation, planning, implementation, monitoring, and closing. It provides guidance on tailoring the methodology to the project's operational context and complexity to achieve objectives with value, effectiveness, efficiency, security, and sustainability.

ICTs can aid disaster risk reduction through their ability to quickly and continuously convey information in real-time. This module introduces Disaster Risk Management concepts and explains how ICTs can be used for disaster mitigation, prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery, with a focus on national and local government policymakers and civil servants.

This module covers climate resilient development theory and practice, highlighting how ICTs can enhance it. It aims to increase awareness of the role of ICT practitioners in addressing climate change and build understanding of climate resilient development, adaptation, and mitigation. The module targets ICT policymakers and technical officers in climate-related sectors at national and local governments and encourages partnerships between ICT and climate change professionals through real-life examples and case studies.

This module covers Information Security and Privacy Protection concepts and standards, focusing on policy establishment and implementation. It aims to help government officials and civil servants assess existing policies and formulate and implement information security policies, plans, and programs that fit their national contexts.

This module introduces government officials and policymakers to the concept of social media and its impact on society, governance, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals. It provides guidance on developing a Government Social Media Policy by highlighting good practices in the use of social media in different governments.

This module helps government officials in developing countries to use data-driven governance by understanding its concepts and challenges. It aims to enhance the use and analysis of data to support governance and government decision-making in the midst of a data revolution.

This module explores the use of digital technologies in governance to support the SDGs. It covers the potential benefits of digitalization, but also emphasizes the need for careful strategy and implementation processes. Aimed at government officials, it focuses on the principles of effectiveness, inclusiveness, and accountability in digital government strategy and policy.

This module presents a comprehensive overview of Open Government Data (OGD) Policy and Trends, delving into the dynamic landscape of OGD policy and legal frameworks. It emphasizes the importance of an effective governance structure that aligns with OGD policy for successful implementation. Concrete examples of the OGD implementation process, including the success of 'Open Data Portals' as initiatives fostering data accessibility, are provided.

This module aims to facilitate the rationalization and development of data privacy and protection regulations in various jurisdictions. It covers fundamental aspects of data privacy, including history, theory, concepts, and evolution. The module introduces current international privacy policy frameworks and analyzes modern national regulations, focusing on their alignment with global principles. It also explores cross-border and domestic enforcement of data protection regulations, particularly addressing risks associated with third-party data transfers. Best practices, challenges, and opportunities in data privacy and protection are also examined.

This module explains cross-sectoral infrastructure sharing for broadband, a strategy to expand connectivity to rural and remote areas. It introduces the concept and explores policy and regulatory issues, providing examples of prevalent models. Aimed at policymakers and civil servants, it fosters understanding and appreciation of the topic.

This module aims to provide policymakers, governmental officials, and managers in the public sector with knowledge and insights into developing strategies for proactive action and coping with population ageing using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The heterogeneity between countries in terms of their demographic structures and the advancement of ICT should be considered in developing solutions customized for each country’s social and cultural contexts.

This Academy module aims to equip digital leaders in developing countries with an understanding of Frontier ICTs for Sustainable Development. It provides an overview of the technology, policy recommendations, and international cooperation agenda for the adoption of Frontier ICTs. The module has three submodules, and more can be added in the future as new emerging technologies emerge.

AI technologies are rapidly growing and expanding across most industries and geographies. Thus, it is important to have a common and shared understanding of what is meant by AI, to know how AI can influence the Sustainable Development Goals, and to be aware of various risks and challenges leading to AI adoption.

Blockchain technologies have seen growing adoption in the last decade. At first, blockchain technology appeared as part of a novelty and alternative electronic payment systems, and with time, it has moved to become an essential part of a growing ecosystem of different blockchain-based solutions and applications. Blockchain technology has the capacity to disrupt the business model of organizations and businesses as we know it.

Around the world, there are 7.6 billion active IoT devices, and this number is expected to grow to 24.1 billion by 2030. IoT is an emerging technology and offers several benefits to the global society. It allows dynamic data gathering, analytics-based decisions, and automatic actions in the physical world. IoT works in combination with other technologies such as Cloud Computing, Big Data, and Artificial Intelligence .

This module aims to provide government leaders and policymakers in developing countries with the knowledge they need to establish a new ethical framework that includes all members of society, fosters trust among users of AI, and enables peaceful coexistence with AI in the future. The module incorporates recommendations from case studies conducted in various countries, as well as guidance from international organizations like the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). 

This comprehensive course on AI Governance and Ethics is designed for policymakers and civil servants to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Participants will learn about AI governance frameworks that ensure ethical and responsible AI deployment, balancing innovation with societal values. The course emphasizes transparency, safety, accountability, and ethical alignment while addressing the technical, legal, and ethical challenges associated with AI systems.