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.

Events and activities

Discover events and activities from this year and previous years.

2026

Centre for Doctoral Training (CTD) in AI Student Conference

Wednesday 7 October, 9:30am-4pm

Taking place in the Sir Frank Whittle Building, this event is open to Centre for Doctoral Training students only and provides an opportunity to showcase research through oral presentations, hear from expert speakers and develop professional networks.

Launch of the Coventry Centre for Doctoral Training in AI

Tuesday 20 October 2026, 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM

We’re inviting our alumni and anyone interested in the future of AI to join us for the launch of our Centre for Doctoral Training in AI, showcasing how doctoral research, academic expertise and industry collaboration can develop AI solutions to real-world challenges.

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.

Expert insights from our AI Lead

AI adoption

As AI exposes how organisations really work, Professor Elena Gaura explains how we are turning those insights into better services, greater productivity and growth through skills, governance and process redesign.

Inclusive AI

As the UK continues to develop its AI capabilities, Professor Elena Gaura explores how collaboration and adaptability can help create a more inclusive, future-ready approach.

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.

AI and business

Digitised brain surrounded by purple waves

How business can maximise the benefits of AI

Advice on how businesses can move from adopting AI tools to taking a strategic approach focussed on identifying where the technology can add real value.

Learn more