Future Digital Intelligence Leadership Development Program launches training session in Shanghai

The first training session under the Future Digital Intelligence Leadership Development Program was held in Shanghai, on the sidelines of MWC26 Shanghai that ran from June 24 to 26. The program is jointly organized by GSMA, the World Internet Conference Digital & AI Academy (WICDA) and the Global Sustainable Development Goal and Leadership Development Center (GSLDC).

Around 20 government officials from countries and regions including Botswana, the Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Portugal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Zambia gathered to explore pathways for the global digital and intelligent transformation. 

Discussions focused on key topics including artificial intelligence trends, digital intelligence leadership and sustainable development.

The training featured lectures delivered by experts on AI governance from the Cyberspace Administration of China, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), specialists in the digital economy and sustainable development from the GSLDC and mobile communications experts from the GSMA. 

Through expert presentations and case studies, government officials gained a systematic understanding of China's governance practices in AI, featuring its inclusive yet prudent regulatory approach and its parallel pursuit of innovation and security. They also explored the practical pathways for strengthening digital security resilience and coordinating the deployment of green computing infrastructure, and, building on the connectivity foundation of 5G-A and the IoT, jointly mapped out a new blueprint for the sustainable development of smart cities.

During the interactive sessions, government officials exchanged views on the current state of AI development in their respective countries, shared challenges in digital and intelligent transformation and explored opportunities for international cooperation.

As part of the program, participants also attended a series of events at MWC26 Shanghai, where they gained first-hand insights into the latest developments and practical applications of technologies such as 6G and satellite communications.

Looking ahead, the Future Digital Intelligence Leadership Development Program will continue to deliver capacity-building initiatives worldwide through the flagship programs of its three organizing partners. 

With a focus on digital strategy, global governance and industrial applications, the program aims to help government officials worldwide — particularly those from developing countries — to broaden their international perspectives and strengthen their understanding of cutting-edge digital and intelligent development and transformation.

The WIC Digital & AI Academy (WICDA) serves as the WIC’s platform for capacity-building cooperation and exchange. It focuses on digital and AI capacity building worldwide, particularly in developing countries. WICDA aims to cultivate digital and AI talent, bridge the digital and AI divide, and ensure that all countries benefit from inclusive development.