Apply now: Join an exclusive challenge for government teams exploring AI in education service delivery

AI in education has huge potential, but it also brings new risks. Without thoughtful design, AI could widen the learning divide rather than close it. Many education ministries may struggle to assess the effectiveness and safety of emerging AI tools, and policy frameworks are often still in development.

The AI Observatory was set up to help address this challenge. We work to identify gaps in product trustworthiness, policy development, and to build a clearer picture of what effective and equitable AI use in education really looks like. We scan AI trends, test real-world applications, benchmark tools and provide tailored guidance, all with the goal of supporting education decision makers with timely, practical evidence.

As part of this work, we are launching the Ministry of Education AI Challenge; a new opportunity for government teams to explore how AI can strengthen education service delivery in practice.

This is a call for applications to join a small, ambitious group of public sector teams that are ready to test ideas and develop AI-powered solutions that improve how education systems work on the ground.

What is the opportunity?

Selected teams will take part in a process to design and test practical AI-powered services. Examples could include:

• Smart scheduling tools to better match teachers or resources to schools
• Early warning systems to identify learners at risk of dropping out
• Real-time dashboards that help education managers respond to data rather than report it after the fact

This is not about polished solutions. The programme is designed to support exploration, learning and rapid prototyping, with expert help throughout.

What support will you receive?

Each team will receive a tailored support package worth £50,000*. This includes:

• Expert coaching on how to apply AI effectively in public services.
• Embedded technical support to help you design and test your idea.
• Support navigating government systems, including procurement and approvals.
• Access to a peer group of government teams working on similar challenges.
• Events and learning exchanges to share progress and gain feedback.

*Please note: this is not a cash grant. The support is provided in the form of services and technical assistance valued at £50,000.

Eligibility

To take part in the challenge, you will need to:

• Be a government entity or government-affiliated organisation in the Global South working on education service delivery.
• Nominate a small working team of 2 to 5 people to participate in group activities.
• Commit to at least one three-month sprint between August 2025 and March 2026.
• Have a named senior sponsor within your ministry, agency or organisation who supports your participation.
• Ensure at least one team member is comfortable working in English and can take part in online events and coaching sessions.

Who should apply?

We are looking for government teams in the Global South, working on education service delivery. This includes teams from ministries, departments or agencies who:

• Have a live service delivery challenge that AI could help address.
• Are able to commit time and internal capacity to work on this project.
• Are open to testing new approaches and sharing what they learn.
• Want to connect with peers working on similar innovations.

You do not need to be an AI expert. We are looking for motivated teams with a clear problem, a willingness to learn and the permission to explore.

How to apply

There are limited spaces. If your team is ready to explore how AI could support better education outcomes, we encourage you to apply.

👉🏿 APPLY HERE

Applications close at midnight GMT on Wednesday 25 June, 2025.

If you have any questions, please contact aiobservatory@edtechhub.org.

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