The World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp in South Korea 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for government officials and public-sector leaders to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve and transform public services. Officially called the WBG AI Academy for Governments, the program is designed for government officials from developing countries who want to build their knowledge and skills in using AI within the public sector.
The program focuses on helping participants progress from AI planning to investment and government transformation. It combines online learning, live virtual sessions, and an in-person workshop in Seoul, South Korea. Participants will gain knowledge in important areas such as AI strategy, data governance, digital infrastructure, institutional capacity building, and the implementation of AI solutions.
The in-person workshop is expected to be held in October 2026 in Seoul alongside the World Bank Group Global Digital Summit. Through the program, participants can gain practical insights into responsible AI adoption and learn how AI can be applied to address real-world challenges in government and public services.
The program is specifically intended for government officials and public-sector leaders, particularly those representing developing countries. Therefore, it is not a general scholarship or training opportunity open to all applicants.
World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026 – Details
| Program Details | Information |
| Offered By: | World Bank Group |
| Program Duration: | 2-day workshop |
| Funding: | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Participants: | Government officials from eligible developing countries |
| Host Country: | South Korea |
| Workshop Location: | Seoul |
| Expected Date: | October 2026 |
| Application Deadline: | 12 October 2026 |
Benefits of the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026
Participants in the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026 can benefit from a range of learning, professional development, and networking opportunities, including:
- Gain practical knowledge of AI implementation in the public sector.
- Develop a better understanding of AI policies, strategies, and governance.
- Learn from World Bank Group specialists and industry experts.
- Connect and network with government officials and international peers.
- Strengthen knowledge of digital government and digital transformation.
- Explore principles and practices for responsible and ethical AI adoption.
- Gain access to practical tools and approaches for developing government AI projects.
- Participate in live virtual learning sessions before the in-person workshop.
- Learn how AI can support government reforms and improve public services.
Program Structure of the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026
- The World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026 consists of three main components designed to provide participants with a combination of self-paced learning, virtual training, and in-person experience.
- Pre-Learning
- Participants will begin the program with a self-paced online course, which is scheduled to start in April 2026. This introductory component will help participants develop foundational knowledge before joining the live sessions.
- Virtual Learning
- From late May through October 2026, participants will attend five live virtual sessions. Each session is expected to last approximately 90 minutes and will focus on important topics related to artificial intelligence, AI policy, governance, and implementation.
- Korea Workshop
- After completing the virtual learning component, selected participants will be invited to attend a two-day in-person workshop in Seoul, South Korea, scheduled for October 2026. Participation in the Korea workshop will be limited to a maximum of 40 AI policy champions, selected from the program participants.
What Will Participants Learn?
- The World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026 will provide participants with practical knowledge and insights into artificial intelligence, digital government, and public-sector transformation.
- AI strategy
- AI investment
- Digital infrastructure
- Data governance
- Institutional capacity
- AI innovation
- Digital public services
- Responsible AI
- AI implementation
- Government technology
- Public-sector reforms
- Practical AI solutions
Eligibility Criteria for the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026
The World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026 is primarily designed for government officials and public-sector professionals from developing countries. Suitable candidates generally include those who meet the following criteria:
- Hold a mid- to senior-level position within a government or public-sector organization.
- Work in a digital or ICT ministry, regulatory institution, or government body involved in digital transformation.
- Professionals working in telecommunications authorities may also be eligible.
- Officials from data protection and regulatory authorities are part of the program’s target audience.
- Have professional experience or an interest in AI, digital transformation, technology policy, or public service delivery.
- Be involved in applying or developing AI-related initiatives in areas such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and public services.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026 is 12 October 2026.
How to Apply for the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026?
Follow these steps to apply for the World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026:
- Visit the official WBG AI Academy webpage and carefully review the available information about the program.
- Check your eligibility and confirm that your professional role and organization match the program’s target audience.
- Review the program requirements, including the self-paced pre-learning course and live virtual sessions.
- Complete the required application or nomination process according to the instructions provided by the World Bank Group.
- Submit the required information before the deadline of 12 October 2026.
- If selected, actively participate in the virtual learning sessions and complete the required coursework.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in AI policy, digital transformation, and practical AI implementation, as selected participants may be considered for the two-day Korea workshop, which is expected to include up to 40 AI policy champions.