Google Committed 100,000 AI Certifications at Digital@UNGA
The pledge aims to scale digital literacy through the AI for Good Skills Coalition as part of a wider UN initiative.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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Google and the International Telecommunication Union have announced a commitment to provide 100,000 artificial intelligence certificates. The initiative launched during the annual Digital@UNGA platform at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Why it matters
The program seeks to address the digital divide by building an inclusive and people-centered digital future. It arrives as the EQUALS Global Partnership for Gender Equality in the Digital Age enters its next decade of operations.
The commitment includes 100,000 online certificates delivered via the AI for Good Skills Coalition. This effort supports a broader ten-year target to empower 100 million women and girls in digital spaces.
The players
A multinational technology company specializing in cloud computing, software engineering, and large-scale AI research and deployment.
International Telecommunication Union
The United Nations specialized agency responsible for information and communication technologies and setting global connectivity standards.
United Nations Development Programme
A global development network that advocates for policy change and provides resources to help countries meet sustainable development goals.
The details
The Digital@UNGA platform functions through a combination of a central anchor event at UN Headquarters and over 100 independent affiliate sessions. Participants explore innovation, inclusion, and cooperation journeys designed to harmonize global digital policy. The program integrates the ITU Gender Champions Programme, which has recently evolved from a pilot study into a formal, global movement.
Timeline
September 21, 2026: The anchor event occurred at the UN headquarters.
Through November 2026: Affiliate sessions will take place globally.
Next decade: The EQUALS Partnership aims to empower 100 million women.
The Tech Race
This initiative extends the decade-long efforts of the EQUALS Global Partnership for Gender Equality in the Digital Age. It represents a pivot toward AI-specific educational metrics as the primary vehicle for achieving global digital inclusion targets.
Eligible participants globally will be able to access training through the AI for Good Skills Coalition to improve technical literacy. The program targets the reduction of the gender digital divide, with expansion expected to continue through various affiliate sessions through November 2026.
The takeaway
The commitment highlights a shift toward AI-literacy as a core requirement for international development. Interested parties should monitor the progress of the 100-plus affiliate sessions occurring through November for updates on program enrollment windows.
Further reading
For broader trends in global AI policy and adoption, explore our Artificial Intelligence section.
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Do you believe global digital initiatives effectively improve technology access for people in your community?
