About UNITAR
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) provides innovative learning solutions to individuals, organizations and institutions to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for shaping a better future.Activities by UNITAR
UN SDG:Learn AI Working Group and Integration of AI in Sustainable Development Learning
Global Not Applicable
As the Joint Secretariat of UN SDG:Learn, UNITAR and UNSSC brought together UN agencies, governments, civil society, and academic partners through a dedicated AI Working Group to explore the role of artificial intelligence in sustainable development learning. In 2024, the group held three meetings that highlighted innovations such as generative AI for instructional design, AI-powered patent summarization, and emerging AI-based edtech solutions. A collaborative online space was established to enable ongoing knowledge exchange.
AI was also a central theme during the UN SDG:Learn Retreat in November 2024, where partners engaged in strategic discussions on the future of AI in learning, including its potential to transform instructional design and learner engagement.
In addition, the UN SDG:Learn podcast featured a thematic episode titled “Banking on Biodiversity: The Seed Saver’s Crusade”, which explored how artificial intelligence and digital tools can support biodiversity, local knowledge systems, and sustainable agriculture. In the episode, Stefan Schmitz, Executive Director of the Global Crop Diversity Trust, emphasized the role of AI and data mining in advancing modern breeding technologies and reviving neglected crops. This episode illustrates the intersection of AI, local innovation, and the SDGs—broadening the scope of sustainable development learning by linking digital innovation with global food systems and biodiversity preservation.
Panel Discussion on “AI Innovations for Sustainable Development” and "AI Innovations for Strengthening Societal Resilience"
Global BrazilGambiaIndonesiaIraqTongaUNITAR convened a high-level panel discussion featuring experts from the Division for Prosperity Advisory Board to explore AI’s role in strengthening societal resilience and combating financial crime. The session engaged over 40 participants in a dialogue on aligning AI technologies with human rights, ethics, and sustainable development priorities.
Activity Type Research/Reports/AssessmentsAwareness/AdvocacyNVIDIA Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Earth Observation
Global AfghanistanAngolaAustraliaBahrainBelgiumBoliviaCzechiaThe United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) announced a collaboration with NVIDIA on training and research activities to promote the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Earth Observation activities in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with an initial emphasis on disaster management.
Activity Type Research/Reports/AssessmentsOnline Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Professional Skills
Global Not ApplicableUNITAR launched a flagship educational initiative aimed at fostering inclusive and future-ready professional skills: the Online Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Professional Skills. This pioneering programme addresses the urgent global need to bridge the digital divide by equipping participants with both foundational knowledge and practical competencies to leverage artificial intelligence effectively across sectors. The programme actively promotes equitable access by offering scholarships and fee waivers to participants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Activity Type Trainings/Workshops