AI for Social Impact Challenge

The AI for Social Impact Challenge, organized by UNITAR in partnership with Ureka Education Group, is a UN-certified online programme designed for students and individuals who want to stand out in a competitive global environment. It is especially aimed at those who may not have easy access to high-quality learning opportunities, giving them the chance to work on real-world challenges using artificial intelligence while earning a verified UN credential in two of today’s most important fields: AI and sustainability.

The programme addresses the gap between learning AI and applying it in practice, particularly in areas such as ethical governance, alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the responsible use of technology. Participants are encouraged not only to understand AI tools, but also to use them in ways that create meaningful social impact.

Structured across ten modules, the programme guides participants from the fundamentals of AI to the development and submission of their own impact-driven project. This hands-on approach helps participants build both technical skills and practical experience in designing solutions to real-world challenges. The top ten performing Challenge participants will have the opportunity to receive a fully funded trip to the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

Key Timelines

Pre – registration: Available Now
Access to online learning modules: 12th June 2026
Global Contest submission deadline: 15th October 2026
Winners award ceremony in Geneva: 9th – 11th December 2026

Course Curriculum

Module 0 – Introduction & Onboarding
- Get started with the programme, understand how it works, and learn about the AI for Social Impact Challenge.
Module 1 – What is AI (Really)?
- Demystify AI and understand how it really works—no technical background needed.
Module 2 – SDGs as a Map of Challenges
- Connect AI to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and real-world challenges.
Module 3 – Real-World Case Studies
- Learn from real successes and failures in AI for social good.
Module 4 – Using ChatGPT (Free)
- Master free AI tools like ChatGPT to bring your ideas to life.
Module 5 – Low / No Internet AI
- Learn how to use AI effectively even with limited or no internet connectivity.
Module 6 – Ethics & UN Values
- Build responsible AI solutions aligned with human rights and UN values.
Module 7 – From Problem to Project
- Transform your idea into a concrete, structured project proposal.
Module 8 – Contest Submission
- Prepare and submit your proposal for the AI for Social Impact Challenge.
Module 9 – Final Launch
- Reflect on your journey and prepare for what comes next.

Programme Benefits

Bridging the gap between AI education and real-world application, the AI for Social Impact Challenge offers a UN-certified, learning-to-action solution:

Official UN certification by UNITAR.
Direct engagement through UN-developed content and AI ethics frameworks, promoting responsible AI use and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that is beyond the generic AI training.
Student work is reviewed and recognized using UN frameworks with opportunities for global showcasing and visibility beyond the local context.
High-performing participants gain a competitive edge for future opportunities in projects and internships across social impact, innovation, policy, and global development fields.
Hands-on experience working on challenges aligned with UN agendas and helping participants better understand global priority issues.
Access to a global network of students, experts, and practitioners committed to UN values and collaborative problem-solving.
Direct enhancement of CVs and portfolios through a high-impact, UN-aligned project experience.
Top 10 participants receive a fully funded opportunity to attend a UNITAR event in Geneva for a firsthand exposure to the UN ecosystem.