(Pictured above) Guests of honour, trainers and participants gathered at the opening ceremony to celebrate the launch of the programme, setting the stage for impactful discussions and learning.

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping governance worldwide, governments face unprecedented opportunities to enhance public service delivery. Through a strategic collaboration between the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP) and IPOS International, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Singapore is leading initiatives to empower public officers with practical insights into artificial intelligence (AI) and intellectual property (IP) – crucial tools for driving digital transformation in the public sector.

A Blueprint for Digital Governance

At the heart of this initiative is the "Transforming Public Service with the Power of Artificial Intelligence" programme, whose latest session was hosted at the Regional Training Centre for Public Administration (RTCPA) in Doha, Qatar from October 7-10, 2024. This intensive four-day programme tackled critical challenges facing modern governance: the integration of AI in government agencies, the complexities of privacy and security in digital systems, and the strategic protection of IP and intangible assets in an increasingly digital world.

Caption: Ms Sumya Baqavi Chargé d’Affaires & Counsellor Embassy of Singapore in Doha [left] and Ms Maha Al Marri, Director of the Qatar Institute of Public Administration [right] kickstarted the programme with their opening remarks.

Caption: Mr. Peh Toon Meng, Head of Academy at IPOS International, welcomed participants with his opening remarks, emphasizing the programme’s vision and goals.

Cultivating Regional AI Leadership

The programme brought together 16 mid-to senior-level government officials, representing seven Asia-Middle East Dialogue (AMED) member countries. This diverse group, with over half holding strategic positions in digital governance, information technology, and innovation, created a rich environment for cross-cultural knowledge exchange and collaborative learning.

Caption: Participants engaged with Mr. Paul McClelland’s insights on identifying and leveraging both tangible and intangible assets, a crucial skill in modern workplace transformation.

Caption: Dr. Lu Weiquan led an interactive demo using VR technology to showcase cutting-edge applications of AI, drawing enthusiastic responses from the audience.

Charting the Future: Key Programme Highlights

Throughout the four days, participants engaged in a comprehensive learning journey that combined expert-led lectures, dynamic group discussions, and real-world case studies. The programme covered three crucial areas:

• Innovation in Action: Participants explored cutting-edge AI developments and their practical applications in public service delivery, examining real-world examples of successful implementation.
   
• Strategic IP Management: The programme delivered crucial insights into creating and protecting intangible assets, with a particular focus on the emerging challenges of generative AI tools like ChatGPT in governmental operations.
   
• Security in the Digital Age: Interactive sessions addressed the critical balance between AI implementation and robust data protection, helping officials develop strategies for secure digital transformation.
   

A particularly valuable insight emerged regarding generative AI outputs and copyright protection – a crucial consideration as government agencies increasingly integrate AI solutions into their daily operations.

Caption: Participants share ideas and reflections during breakout discussions, creating a collaborative environment for learning and exchange.

Caption: The programme concluded with Paul leading a thought-provoking session on key takeaways, encouraging participants to reflect on AI’s transformative potential within their respective roles.

Caption: Ms Sumya Baqavi Chargé d’Affaires & Counsellor Embassy of Singapore in Doha spoked at the commencement of the programme.

Speaking at the programme's commencement, Ms Sumya Baqavi, Chargé d'Affaires & Counsellor at the Embassy of Singapore in Doha, emphasised the programme's strategic importance: "Transforming Public Service with the Power of Artificial Intelligence is a salient topic as governments increasingly share common interest in harnessing digital technologies to enhance the quality of public service delivery for their citizens."

She added, "I look forward to the continued strong support from the Qatari government and our partners in facilitating the fruitful exchange of experiences and ideas among AMED officials," highlighting the ongoing commitment to regional collaboration in digital governance.

Caption: IPOS International staff shared a memorable moment with Mr. Philip Paul Peters, First Secretary (Admin & Consular), following his insightful closing remarks that wrapped up the programme.

Caption: Closing Ceremony – Gratitude and smiles all around as IPOS International and the Institute of Public Administration celebrated a successful completion under the MFA Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP)

About the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP)

As a responsible member of the international community, Singapore provides technical assistance for developing countries through the SCP. Since 1992, more than 150,000 government officials from over 180 countries, territories and intergovernmental organisations have participated in the SCP capacity-building programmes. More information about the SCP can be found at www.scp.gov.sg.