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.

• Pre-registration: Available Now (Rolling admissions)
• Access to online learning modules: From 12th June 2026 (Participants begin upon successful registration.) 
• First Cohort – Global Contest submission deadline: 15th October 2026 
• First Cohort – Winners Award Ceremony in Geneva: 9th–11th December 2026 

The programme follows a rolling enrollment model. Those who register after the first cohort deadline will automatically join the next cohort and corresponding global contest cycle.

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.

The top 10 performers in the AI for Social Impact Challenge receive extraordinary recognition and life-changing opportunities. 

• A fully funded UN Recognition Trip, including an all-expenses-paid 4-day visit to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. 
• Winners will receive a certificate of excellence and an award trophy at the award ceremony in Geneva. 
• Preferential access and discounted fees for selected future UN and UNITAR programs and projects. 
• Mentorship opportunities with guidance from experts and professionals aligned with UN values and global impact work. 
• UN recommendation letters to support academic and professional advancement. 
• An official LinkedIn recognition badge that winners can display to showcase their UN-recognized achievement. 
• Inclusion in the official “AI for Social Impact Yearbook,” highlighting outstanding projects and participants. 
• Public recognition across UNITAR and Ureka channels, showcasing winners and their impact.