UNDP Fellowship – AI in a Box Pilot Programme 2026

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting applications for a Fellowship under its AI in a Box Pilot Initiative in Bhutan. The fellowship offers an exciting opportunity for young professionals interested in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, project coordination, and international development to work with UNDP Bhutan and its partners.

The six-month fellowship is part of the AI in a Box initiative, implemented by UNDP Bhutan in partnership with the UNDP Seoul Policy Centre (USPC). The project aims to help public institutions process paper-based and unstructured digital records using offline artificial intelligence technology while ensuring data sovereignty and security.

The selected Fellow will coordinate the day-to-day implementation of the pilot project at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu. The role combines project management, stakeholder coordination, knowledge sharing, and digital innovation while providing valuable experience within the United Nations development system.

About the UNDP Fellowship

UNDP Bhutan is implementing the AI in a Box Pilot Initiative to help government institutions digitize and organize large collections of paper and electronic records using locally deployed artificial intelligence. The initiative allows institutions to benefit from AI-powered document scanning, optical character recognition (OCR), and intelligent search without relying on cloud-based systems.

The project is being implemented in collaboration with the Medical Records Department of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. The hospital currently manages approximately 100,000 paper medical records alongside unstructured digital records. Through this initiative, these records will be digitized, indexed, and made searchable while remaining securely stored within the institution.

The Fellow will serve as the main in-country coordinator, working closely with hospital staff, UNDP Bhutan, and the UNDP Seoul Policy Centre. Although the position does not require advanced AI programming skills, applicants should have sufficient understanding of artificial intelligence and digital systems to communicate effectively with technical experts and support project implementation.

In addition to coordinating the Bhutan pilot, the Fellow will contribute to documenting lessons learned and sharing practical knowledge with other participating UNDP country offices through South-South and Triangular Cooperation initiatives. This makes the fellowship an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in digital transformation, innovation, healthcare technology, and international development.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected Fellows will receive several professional and learning benefits, including:

• Monthly fellowship stipend.
• Six months of practical experience with UNDP.
• Opportunity to work on an innovative AI project.
• Experience in project coordination and stakeholder engagement.
• Exposure to digital transformation within the public sector.
• Professional mentorship from UNDP Bhutan and the UNDP Seoul Policy Centre.
• Participation in international knowledge-sharing activities.
• Experience working with government institutions and healthcare partners.
• Opportunity to contribute to AI and digital innovation initiatives that support sustainable development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should meet the requirements outlined in the official vacancy announcement.

Candidates should:

• Hold a university degree in a relevant discipline.
• Demonstrate an interest in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, project management, or international development.
• Have strong organizational and coordination skills.
• Be able to manage multiple activities simultaneously.
• Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be proactive and capable of solving problems independently.
• Be comfortable working with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to diverse cultural and professional environments.
• Be fluent in English.

Available Areas Of Study

Applicants from a variety of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including:

• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Information Technology
• Data Science
• Digital Innovation
• Project Management
• Public Administration
• International Development
• Health Informatics
• Information Systems
• Engineering
• Development Studies

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:

• Completed online application.
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Academic certificates.
• Educational transcripts.
• Cover letter or motivation statement.
• Any additional documents requested through the UNDP recruitment portal.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Academic qualifications.
• Interest in artificial intelligence and innovation.
• Project coordination skills.
• Communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Motivation to contribute to international development.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• English language proficiency.

How To Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official UNDP recruitment portal.
2. Search for Job ID 36299.
3. Read the complete fellowship description and eligibility requirements.
4. Prepare your CV and supporting documents.
5. Complete the online application form.
6. Review your application carefully.
7. Submit your application before the deadline.