Context and Challenges
An internal survey conducted by the World Bank found that the majority of its staff used Generative AI tools on a daily basis for their work. It resulted in the need for more guidance, policy and training for its employees and consultants. They needed structured knowledge on how to use these tools effectively, ethically and responsibly.
Our Role
The World Bank commissioned Research for Purpose to train its communications and external affairs staff in summer 2025. We delivered two online sessions, scheduled to suit colleagues in different time zones, for about 400 participants.
The training combined concrete applications with an explanation of how generative AI works, its risks and opportunities, and live tool demonstrations. It was run by our AI experts together with communications researchers and practitioners. Once participants understand how the technology works, its strengths and limitations become much more intuitive, and so does its responsible use.
Results
World Bank staff praised the training for its practical applications and for its explanation of how generative AI actually works. It informs the next stage of their capacity building programmes on AI, their policy guidelines. As importantly, they also updated not only their AI toolkit but also the use cases promoted internally.