Hand holding a bubble with AI written inside

World AI Week 2026

World AI Week is a global campaign that brings together sectors, organisations and communities to explore how artificial intelligence is influencing the future of society, business and everyday life.

Through research, innovation, education and skills development, we are supporting people and organisations engage with AI in ways that are responsible, inclusive and impactful.

During World AI Week, we are hosting a series of activities that connect participants with experts from Coventry University Group as well as other organisations. These events will showcase new opportunities, talent and demonstrate how practical AI applications can create lasting benefits for both the economy and society.

Our vision for AI's future

What will it take to create an AI future that leaves no one behind?

As AI continues to redefine society, Professor Elena Gaura explains how the UK can realise AI’s full potential by developing it collaboratively, responsibly and inclusively to ensure it's benefits reach everyone.

Event archive

Explore last year's events.

2025

Virtual AI and Coffee Chats

Monday, 6 October 2025 - Friday, 10 October 2025, 16:00-16:30 PM

These are 30-minute sessions exploring different aspects of artificial intelligence. Each day will explore a different theme: What is AI, really? (Monday); AI in Everyday Life (Tuesday); AI in Research Projects (Wednesday); AI and Society (Thursday); and AI: Ethics, Bias and the Future (Friday).

Led by our AI experts, including Professors Elena Gaura, Vasile Palade, Matthew England, James Brusey and Dr Fei He, these sessions are an opportunity to share ideas, ask questions and connect with others interested in how AI is shaping teaching, research and society.

Can AI Plug the Skills Gap? AI Skills in Automotive Report Launch

Tuesday 7 October, 10:00 - 11:00 AM

We are launching Can AI Plug the Skills Gap?, a new research report developed with the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC). Based on interviews with leading organisations across sectors, the report explores the growing demand for AI-related skills in the UK automotive industry and sets out practical recommendations for employers, policymakers, and educators.

At this live online event, we will share key insights from our research team and host a panel discussion with leaders including Professor Elena Gaura, Dan Fung (APC), Dr Sam Clarke, Dr James Shuttleworth, Madeline Cheah and Deepak Farmah.

AI in Education Community of Practice

Wednesday 8 October 2025, 09:30 – 12:00 PM

We are launching the AI in Education Community of Practice – a new forum designed to support professional development, share good practice and explore both current and future uses of AI in education. The event will be opened by Andrew Turner, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Curriculum Development, with contributions from Professor Elena Gaura and Martin Jenkins.

This new initiative will create a collaborative space where staff can build confidence with AI, keep up to date with emerging developments and contribute to how Coventry University Group makes the most of AI in education.

AI Innovation Business Breakfast

Thursday 9 October 2025, 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM

This free two-hour breakfast event is for business leaders and professionals across the West Midlands who want to explore the opportunities and challenges of AI.

It will include perspectives from Mike Lewis (West Midlands Combined Authority) on how local government is shaping digital strategy, Jo Birch (GROWTHINNK Associates) on helping businesses innovate and grow and Mike Forster (Capgemini Invent UK) on how industry is responding to AI adoption. Coventry University experts will then lead discussions on breaking down barriers and adopting AI in responsible, practical ways.

Online AI Quiz

Friday 10 October 2025, 12:00 – 12:30 PM

This quiz will explore common myths and misconceptions about AI, testing what’s fact and what’s fiction while sparking discussion along the way.

Launching key AI initiatives

AI Skills Academy

Equipping professionals across sectors with practical, industry-aligned AI training, supported by hands-on tools, flexible delivery and employer collaboration.

Coventry Centre for Doctoral Training in AI

Developing the next generation of AI leaders through interdisciplinary research, hands-on training and industry-aligned projects.

AI Adoption Lab

Providing expertise, facilities and support to businesses and researchers to develop, test and scale new technologies quickly.

Bridging the AI skills gap

Our new report, commissioned by the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK, highlights the growing demand for AI and digital skills in the UK automotive sector and explores practical ways to develop a highly-skilled, capable workforce through training, collaboration and industry–education alignment.