UNDP and Exponential Science Foundation Launch Blockchain Academy for Public Sector Innovation

UNDP and Exponential Science Foundation Collaborate on Blockchain Academy

In a strategic move to propel public sector innovation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has joined forces with the Exponential Science Foundation. Together, they have unveiled plans for the Government Blockchain Academy, a pioneering initiative designed to empower governments with the knowledge and tools needed to harness blockchain technology and artificial intelligence for transformative development.

The primary objective of this academy is to tackle pressing societal issues by providing tailored education and hands-on implementation strategies. The initiative encompasses five key areas:

1. Inclusive Digital Finance: Aiming to enhance access to financial services by implementing secure digital payment systems.

2. Transparent Governance: Focused on boosting integrity and countering corruption by utilizing secure, tamper-resistant recordkeeping and fostering digital transactions.

3. Supply Chain Integrity: Aiding in the traceability and accountability of public procurement and logistics through decentralized verification methods.

4. Climate Resilience: Leveraging blockchain-based smart contracts and digital tokens to promote transparent climate financing, including tracking carbon credits effectively.

5. Digital Identity Solutions: Providing individuals with reliable, verifiable digital credentials that facilitate better service access.

The Government Blockchain Academy is set to launch its first country programs in 2026, with preparatory work including curriculum design and stakeholder engagement to kick off in 2025. The formal announcement of this exciting venture will occur at the upcoming TOKEN2049 event in Singapore on October 1-2, 2025. This event will also host an industry roundtable aimed at aligning protocol developers and infrastructure providers to rally support for this groundbreaking educational initiative.

Irena Cerovic, Innovation Team Leader at UNDP Europe and Central Asia, expressed, “At UNDP, we are committed to institutional innovation, including creating spaces for governments to explore and test frontier technologies. The Government Blockchain Academy builds on this spirit, offering a pathway for countries to tackle complex development challenges in new ways.” She emphasized that the initiative would facilitate the transition from experimentation to practical implementation, bolstering transparency, inclusion, and resilience.

Prof. Paolo Tasca, Executive Chairman of the Exponential Science Foundation, added, “This is not just an educational initiative; it's a collective blueprint for public innovation. By convening various partners under one framework, we ensure governments have the necessary tools and talent to navigate the next wave of digital transformation.”

Through a comprehensive program featuring in-person workshops, online modules, and leadership forums, the Academy will cater to the specific needs of public sector participants. It will provide access to essential resources, tailored incubation, expert advice, and guidance throughout their digital learning journey.

Each government team will receive structured support, which includes identifying use cases and developing requirements, collaborating with Academy experts and industry partners, and engaging in workshops that align decision-makers and technical stakeholders. This approach aims to co-create scalable, impactful blockchain initiatives that correspond to national priorities.

Ultimately, the Government Blockchain Academy will function as a global hub for dialogue, experimentation, and learning, empowering officials to engage with cutting-edge technologies and shape policies that prioritize digital inclusion, security, and sovereignty. For those interested in participating in this transformative initiative, more information is available on the Altfinlab innovation community platform, which is part of the Exponential Science Foundation's broader commitment to advancing blockchain education and application in the public sector.