The Government Digital Service (GDS) Academy has launched a new programme aimed at building Civil Service skills in new technologies such as AI, machine learning and blockchain.
It has set up an Emerging Technology Development Programme, involving the creation of a team of specialists to advise on the application of emerging technologies in government.
It will bring together small groups of qualified civil servants with specialists in specific fields in a 10-week learning curriculum.
The first call for applications focuses on AI and machine learning, with plans for future efforts to distributed ledger technology – better known as blockchain – augmented and virtual reality, biotechnology, geospatial technology and quantum computing.
Hamid Bouchachia, professor in data science and intelligent systems at Bournemouth University and one of the tutors on the programme, said: “Thanks to its versatility, AI and machine learning can be used everywhere to accomplish services and enhance the quality of their provision across sectors like health, energy, environment, transport, housing, manufacturing.”
A GDS blogpost says the programme follows a successful pilot early this year and reflects the expansion of the GDS Academy’s curriculum into new technologies.
Applications for the programme are now open until 11 January.
Image from iStock
