Artificial and Digital Technology
Big Data and Artificial Intelligence Programme
The advancement of Big Data and AI are transforming economies and public services, but many developing countries still face gaps in skills, data, and AI adoption.
In line with UNESCO’s priorities, ISTIC has initiated the Big Data and AI Programme to support policymakers, researchers, educators, and technical professionals from developing countries. The initiative focuses on practical skills development, knowledge exchange, policy awareness, and the responsible and ethical use of AI and data technologies to support sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Programme’s Objectives
The project is a structured international training workshop designed to enhance participants’ technical understanding, practical skills, and policy perspectives on Big Data and AI applications.
Strengthening technical and institutional capacity in Big Data and AI among participating countries
Enhancing participants’ understanding of practical applications of AI and data analytics for national development priorities
Promoting responsible, ethical, and inclusive use of AI technologies in line with UNESCO recommendations
Supporting policymakers and institutions in developing or strengthening national strategies, policies, and implementation frameworks
Fostering South-South and triangular cooperation through knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration
Programme’s Partners
International Knowledge Centre for Engineering Sciences and Technology (IKCEST)
IKCEST is a UNESCO Category II Centre based in China. It focuses on promoting international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building in engineering sciences and technology. Supported by the Chinese government, IKCEST develops digital platforms, research initiatives, and training programs to advance sustainable development and technological innovation.
Xi’an Jiaotong University
Xi’an Jiaotong University is a leading public research university in Xi’an, China, and a member of the prestigious C9 League of elite Chinese institutions. Renowned for its strengths in engineering, energy, medicine, and applied sciences, the university plays a key role in advancing innovation and technological development. With a strong global outlook, Xi’an Jiaotong University maintains partnerships with hundreds of institutions worldwide and promotes international collaboration through initiatives such as the University Alliance of the Silk Road.
Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems (MIMOS)
MIMOS Berhad is Malaysia’s national applied research and development centre under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The organization drives innovation in areas such as semiconductor technology, microelectronics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Through industry collaboration, technology commercialization, and talent development, MIMOS supports Malaysia’s digital economy and strengthens the country’s position in advanced technology and smart solutions.
AI Education Programme
In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, education systems must prepare students for new technological realities. ISTIC’s programme on AI Education introduces AI literacy in schools to prepare students for an AI-driven future.
It targets upper primary and lower secondary learners and equips teachers to build students’ computational thinking, understanding of algorithms, and ethical awareness through age-appropriate modules, hands-on activities, and teacher training aligned with Malaysia’s educational and economic priorities.
Programme’s Objectives
The AI Teacher Training Workshop is a three-day intensive programme led by Chinese AI education experts in partnership with ISTIC and AETDEW. The workshop targets primary and secondary school teachers from Malaysia and ASEAN countries.
Providing teachers with a comprehensive understanding of AI technologies and their applications in education
Enhancing teachers’ practical skills in teaching AI literacy to support classroom integration
Learning from China’s AI education model to cultivate AI-literate schoolteachers
Equiping teachers with effective teaching tools and methodologies for AI education
Empowering future talents pipeline with AI Education
Promoting regional collaboration among Global South teachers in AI education initiatives
Programme’s main Partners
The Academy of Engineering and Technology for Developing Worlds (AETDEW)
The Academy of Engineering and Technology for Developing Worlds is a focused organisation that prioritises networking and capacity building in engineering and technology for the Global South. Its main goal is to connect professionals, researchers, and institutions to share knowledge, develop skills, and foster collaboration that supports sustainable and inclusive development through appropriate technological solutions.
The Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy (CSEDS)
The Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy (CSEDS) is a national Chinese think tank dedicated to advancing education reform, innovation, and strategic policy development. In this programme, CSEDS serves as lead trainer, sharing pedagogical methodologies and practical insights drawn from China’s AI education ecosystem.
Malaysia Ministry of Education (MOE)
The Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) is the government body responsible for overseeing the national education system in Malaysia. It develops education policies, designs curricula, manages public schools, and ensures access to quality education from preschool through secondary levels. The MOE also drives national priorities such as digital learning, STEM development, and the integration of emerging technologies to prepare students for future workforce needs.
