The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN agency specializing in digital technologies, has launched the AI Skills Coalition, a global initiative aimed at addressing disparities in artificial intelligence (AI) skills and promoting equitable access to AI education. Announced at the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos, the coalition brings together over 25 organizations, including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, the East Africa Community, and Cognizant, to enhance AI capacity building and education worldwide.
The coalition, part of ITU’s AI for Good initiative, seeks to narrow the global AI skills gap by providing open and accessible training in areas such as generative AI, machine learning, and AI applications for sustainable development. ITU emphasizes that this effort aligns with broader UN goals, including the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact, aiming to create inclusive opportunities in an increasingly AI-driven world.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin highlighted the initiative’s mission to democratize AI education, particularly in underserved regions. “Let’s make sure everyone has a chance to learn the skills they need to benefit from the AI revolution,” she stated, underscoring the goal to train thousands globally within the year.
Addressing Barriers to AI Adoption
The AI Skills Coalition seeks to tackle several challenges hindering broader AI adoption, such as the lack of technical expertise and the need for reskilling. A recent AI for Good Impact Report by ITU and Deloitte noted that while AI is viewed as critical to organizational success by 94% of surveyed business leaders, significant barriers remain, particularly in developing countries.
The initiative also addresses the underrepresentation of marginalized groups, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities, in AI development. Training programs will aim to improve inclusivity in the workforce and enhance the capacity of policymakers and leaders to leverage AI responsibly for sustainable development.
Contributions and Partnerships
Organizations participating in the coalition are contributing resources, training materials, and outreach support. Microsoft, for example, will provide access to training, certifications, and capacity-building initiatives, leveraging its global expertise in AI education. Kate Behncken, Global Head of Microsoft Philanthropies, emphasized the increasing demand for AI-related skills, citing data showing a 142-fold increase in professionals listing AI skills on LinkedIn over the past year.
The ITU will collaborate with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to leverage its extensive presence in over 170 countries and territories. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner noted the high demand for capacity development in developing countries and emphasized the coalition’s role in providing foundational AI training for policymakers.
Implementation and Future Plans
The coalition will launch its training platform in March 2025, offering a range of resources, including a customizable digital library, self-paced courses, webinars, and hybrid programs. Advanced certifications will be available at accessible rates, with additional government-focused training on AI governance, ethics, and policymaking to address specific regional needs.
The initiative will expand its offerings throughout the year, with in-person workshops on AI skills training scheduled as part of the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva from July 8–11, 2025.
By consolidating resources and fostering collaboration among governments, academia, and private sector organizations, the AI Skills Coalition aims to bridge the global AI education gap and ensure that diverse communities can participate fully in the digital transformation.