Academy of Artificial Intelligence and Technology

Artificial Intelligence and Technology Academy, initiated in 2021 by Google Türkiye under the name Games and Applications Academy and restructured in 2024 as the Artificial Intelligence and Technology Academy, is a multi-stakeholder education and skills development initiative aimed at cultivating qualified human resources for Türkiye’s digital transformation process. The program is implemented with the support of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, Presidency of Digital Transformation, T3 Startup Center and Entrepreneurship Foundation and provides free online education to university students and graduates aged 18 to 29.

Establishment and Development Process

The Artificial Intelligence and Technology Academy first emerged in 2021 as an educational initiative launched by Google Türkiye under the name Games and Applications Academy. Over a three-year period, this academy graduated 6,500 young individuals and was restructured in 2024 to align with evolving technological trends and needs. Under its new name, the academy now focuses not only on games and application development but also on artificial intelligence, data science and generative artificial intelligence technologies.

This transformation took place as part of the “Artificial Intelligence Literacy Mobilization” initiative launched in accordance with Türkiye’s 2021–2025 National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.

Target Audience and Admission Criteria

The academy is open to individuals aged 18 to 29 from across Türkiye who are either currently enrolled in university or have graduated. The application process includes completing an initial application form, submitting a one-minute motivation video, responding to case-based questions, and completing a technical competency test. All training is delivered online and free of charge. The program aims to select candidates who can dedicate an average of 17 hours per week to their studies.

Curriculum and Program Structure

The training offered at the Artificial Intelligence and Technology Academy is structured around three main pillars:

1. Developing Artificial Intelligence Applications

Participants receive training in developing web applications using FastAPI, creating generative AI-based applications, and foundational areas such as finance and human resources in entrepreneurship. The program includes technical workshops, Q&A sessions, project development competitions (Ideathon), career acceleration programs, and project internship opportunities.

2. Data Science

In data science training, participants work on advanced data analytics and machine learning models using Google’s localized Coursera content. Participants also take part in technical workshops and data-focused competitions (Datathon), and gain access to bootcamps and internships designed to prepare them for the workforce.

3. AI-Enhanced Game Development

Training Format and Certification

The program delivers over 500 hours of online educational content. Participants can earn internationally recognized certifications approved by organizations such as Google, Coursera, and PMI (Project Management Institute), which they can use in job applications and career advancement. The training is delivered in an online format that supports self-paced learning and allows participants to access materials independently of time and location.

Goals and Expected Contributions

The primary goal of the academy is to equip Türkiye’s youth with expertise in artificial intelligence, close the talent gap in this field, and contribute to the digital economy. It aims to transform participants from mere consumers into producers, introduce them to the entrepreneurship ecosystem, and facilitate their entry into the workforce in areas such as generative AI, data analytics, and application development. The development of skilled individuals capable of driving AI-driven transformation across diverse sectors such as industry, agriculture, healthcare, and finance is anticipated as one of the program’s long-term contributions.

Current Status and Participant Numbers

As of 2024, the Artificial Intelligence and Technology Academy has opened its doors to 2,000 new scholarship recipients. To date, the academy has graduated 3,240 individuals, offered 7 courses, produced 698 video lessons, and employed 4 instructors. The program’s annual graduation capacity is set at 2,000 individuals.

Organizational Structure and Partnerships

The academy is implemented under the leadership of Google Türkiye in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the Presidency of Digital Transformation, the Entrepreneurship Foundation, and the T3 Startup Center. This model enables coordinated contributions from public institutions, the private sector, and civil society.