Applications Open for the International Telecommunication Union Advanced Training Program on Evidence-Based Digital Policies in Bangkok, Thailand

Professionals working in digital development, telecommunications, policy design, data analytics, and connectivity initiatives now have an exceptional opportunity to strengthen their expertise through the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Advanced Training Program on Evidence-Based Digital Policies to Achieve Universal and Meaningful Connectivity.

Scheduled to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from 28 September to 2 October 2026, this prestigious face-to-face training program is designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to design, monitor, and evaluate digital policies using reliable data and evidence.

Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in collaboration with United Nations University Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), and funded through the European Union Global Gateway Initiative, the program offers selected participants a fully funded training experience that includes accommodation, meals, and various learning activities.

The training is targeted at professionals who are actively engaged in digital transformation, ICT development, telecommunications regulation, policymaking, research, and data-driven governance.

About the Training Program

As countries around the world accelerate their digital transformation agendas, ensuring Universal and Meaningful Connectivity has become a critical development priority. Effective policymaking in this area requires robust evidence, accurate data, and reliable analytical tools.

This advanced-level training program focuses on strengthening participants’ technical capabilities to utilize evidence-based approaches for digital policy development. Participants will learn how to interpret and leverage Information and Communication Technology (ICT) statistics, geospatial information, policy assessments, and other evidence sources to support informed decision-making.

The course provides an opportunity for participants to interact directly with experts who generate and apply digital development evidence at national, regional, and international levels.

Training Objectives

The program seeks to strengthen participants’ capacity to:

Understand the role of evidence in digital policymaking.
Interpret and analyze ICT statistics.
Utilize geospatial data sources for digital development planning.
Apply policy assessment tools to evaluate digital strategies.
Design evidence-based digital connectivity policies.
Monitor implementation of digital development initiatives.
Evaluate policy outcomes and impacts.
Communicate evidence-based findings effectively to stakeholders.
Support Universal and Meaningful Connectivity goals through data-driven decision-making.

What Participants Will Learn

Throughout the intensive 40-hour training program, participants will gain practical and theoretical knowledge in several critical areas, including:

1. ICT Statistics and Data Interpretation

Participants will learn how to:

Understand key ICT indicators.
Analyze telecommunications and connectivity data.
Assess digital inclusion trends.
Use statistical evidence to support policymaking.

2. Geospatial Data for Digital Development

The course explores:

Geospatial mapping techniques.
Connectivity gap analysis.
Infrastructure planning using location-based evidence.
Geographic approaches to digital inclusion.

3. Policy Assessment and Evaluation

Participants will develop skills in:

Policy monitoring frameworks.
Impact assessment methodologies.
Evidence-based policy evaluation.
Performance measurement for digital initiatives.

4. Communication of Evidence

Participants will learn effective approaches for:

Presenting data-driven insights.
Communicating policy recommendations.
Engaging decision-makers using evidence.
Translating technical findings into actionable strategies.

Training Methodology

The program combines multiple learning approaches to maximize participant engagement and practical application.

Training activities include:

Expert-led lectures.
Interactive discussions.
Practical workshops.
Hands-on exercises.
Case study analysis.
Group learning activities.
Knowledge-sharing sessions with international experts.

This blended instructional approach ensures participants gain both conceptual understanding and practical skills applicable to real-world digital policy environments.

Financial Support and Benefits

One of the most attractive features of this training opportunity is the substantial financial support provided to selected participants.

Fully Funded Benefits Include:

Free participation in the advanced training program.
Accommodation during the training period.
Daily breakfasts.
Daily lunches.
Extracurricular and networking activities.
Access to international experts and practitioners.
Professional development in a highly relevant field.
International networking opportunities.
Exposure to global best practices in digital policymaking.

Travel Support

Participants or their organizations are generally expected to cover:

International airfare.
Local transportation.
Visa costs where applicable.
Additional personal expenses.

However, applicants from the following countries may also be eligible for travel support:

Bangladesh
Bhutan
Cambodia
Lao PDR
Nepal
Timor-Leste
Vietnam

Eligible candidates from these countries are encouraged to review the official application materials for travel support details.

Training Details

Program Information

Program: Evidence-Based Digital Policies to Achieve Universal and Meaningful Connectivity
Organizer: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Partner: United Nations University Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT)
Funding Partner: European Union Global Gateway Initiative
Training Type: Face-to-Face
Course Level: Advanced
Language: English
Duration: 40 Hours

Venue

Bangkok, Thailand

Event Dates

28 September 2026 – 2 October 2026

Meet the Experts

Participants will benefit from the guidance of leading experts working in digital connectivity, telecommunications, and evidence-based policymaking.

Featured experts include:

Jose L. Cervera-Ferri, Senior Project Manager, Promoting and Measuring Universal and Meaningful Connectivity, International Telecommunication Union.
Daniel Vertesy.
Praachi Kumar.

These experts bring extensive experience in digital policy development, ICT measurement, and connectivity research.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The International Telecommunication Union emphasizes inclusive participation and welcomes professionals from diverse backgrounds.

The program is open to interested professionals regardless of:

Race
Ethnicity
Age
Gender
Religion
Economic status
Cultural background

Special encouragement is extended to:

Women professionals.
Participants from developing countries.
Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs).

This commitment supports broader global efforts toward inclusive digital development and equitable access to opportunities.

Why This Training Matters

Evidence-based policymaking is increasingly essential in achieving sustainable digital transformation. Governments, regulators, development organizations, and stakeholders need accurate data and robust analytical tools to address digital divides and promote meaningful connectivity.

By participating in this training, professionals can enhance their ability to:

Develop stronger digital policies.
Improve connectivity outcomes.
Support digital inclusion initiatives.
Utilize data effectively in decision-making.
Contribute to national and international digital development goals.

As digital transformation continues to shape economies and societies worldwide, the ability to design and implement evidence-based digital policies has become one of the most valuable skills for professionals working in the ICT and development sectors.