AI Bootcamp aims to supercharge Government's digital transformation drive

Whitehall data scientists are set to become AI specialists as part of a pioneering new initiative designed to revolutionise public services.

The AI Accelerator Programme, launched today by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Government Digital Service, and AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark MP, will train government coders in cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques.

This initiative follows Prime Ministerial plans to significantly expand the digital workforce in a bid to reduce inefficiencies within government services and capture £45 billion in productivity savings promised by digital transformation.

Participants from key government bodies including the Ministry of Justice, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Welsh and Scottish Governments, and others, will spend 12 weeks gaining practical AI skills through intensive hackathons and real-world problem-solving sessions.

Minister Feryal Clark highlighted the transformational potential of the programme: "We have already started to build generative AI chatbots and AI assistants to revolutionise interactions with public services. This programme ensures we have the skills to deliver innovation at scale, matching the efficiency and responsiveness citizens expect from the best private-sector experiences."

Early participants are enthusiastic about the opportunities the bootcamp provides. A data scientist from UKHSA said: "I'm excited to develop skills in AI - there’s huge potential to transform our work and healthcare services." A DVLA data scientist added, "Collaborating with colleagues from across government to develop responsible and effective AI models will hugely benefit our organisation."

Ethics will play a significant role in the programme, with participants receiving dedicated training to ensure AI tools are developed transparently, accountably, and without bias, ensuring equitable outcomes for all users.

Delivered in collaboration with AI skills training provider Decoded, the programme is set to enhance government capacity to harness AI effectively. Decoded CEO Richard Peters said: "We are proud to help civil servants unlock the power of data, improving decision-making, efficiency, and security across public services."

The AI Accelerator Programme is a key part of the government's broader Plan for Change, aiming to modernise public services and foster sustainable growth through technological innovation.