UNESCO King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa Prize for the use of ICT in education is now accepting candidatures. The theme of the 2020 edition is " The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the continuity and quality of learning".

In the context of the education crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this focus is all the more important. Indeed, the way we use new technologies to respond to the crisis reveals both their potential and the need to support their development – so that they can help to improve learning and inclusivity rather than exacerbate existing inequalities.

Technology innovations fueled by AI have the potential to locate and reach excluded and marginalized groups and provide quality learning programs for learners in emergency contexts or learners with physical and cognitive disabilities. AI technologies can also help accurately analyze the difficulties faced by students studying in a language other than their mother tongue. At the same time, they can support teachers with a better diagnosis of learning problems and personally adaptive feedback to improve pedagogical responses.

Two winners will be selected by the Director-General of UNESCO based on the recommendations of an international Jury, and each winner will receive a reward of USD 25,000 and a diploma.

Who can apply?

Any individual, institution, or non-governmental organization (NGO) with an established ongoing project relevant to the specific theme of the year i.e. that use AI-powered solutions to enhance the continuity and quality of learning.

More information on the selection criteria and eligibility.

How to apply?

The applicants should first request access to the online platform and then fill in an online form.

See detailed user guide and instructions.

For the application to be considered, it should be nominated by either the National Commission of the UNESCO Member State or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO.

All applicants are encouraged to get in touch with the NGO or National Commission ahead of the application process. Self-nominations will not be accepted.

Governments of UNESCO Member States as well as NGOs in official partnership with UNESCO are invited to elicit and nominate up to three projects, which are in line with the 2020 theme and meet the selection criteria.

The deadline for nominations is 8 January 2021 (midnight, Paris time).

For more information contact: ictprize@unesco.org(link sends e-mail)