Tools, Skills, & Culture: Unpack Global Trends in Public Sector AI Adoption

AI is reshaping how the public sector operates, with public servants in many countries already using AI tools in their day-to-day work. But the depth, quality, and consistency of adoption vary sharply across public institutions, raising a central question: why does AI become part of everyday practice in some public sectors, while remaining fragmented or experimental in others?

Drawing on new global research by ITIF’s Center for Data Innovation and Public First surveying over 3,000 public servants across ten countries, this session will surface how AI adoption is actually experienced on the ground inside public institutions. It will break adoption down into its core components, including access to tools, skills and training, leadership signals, and institutional culture, and show how these factors combine differently across jurisdictions.

Taking place as part of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, this discussion will connect these insights to the Summit’s broader focus on scaling real-world AI impact. It will explore how policymakers can strengthen public sector AI adoption in practice and translate AI ambition into sustained improvements in public services.

Date and Time:

• February 17, 2026 from 2:30 PM to 3:25 PM (IST)

Speakers:

• Karan Bhatia, Global Head of Government Affairs, Google
• Daniel Castro, Director, ITIF’s Center for Data Innovation (Moderator)
• Kazim Rizvi, Founding Director, The Dialogue
• Rachel Wolf, CEO, Public First

Agenda:

• 2:30–2:35 PM - Welcome and Scene-Setting
• 2:35–2:45 PM - Research Overview: Global AI Adoption Index – Early Insights
• 2:45–3:05 PM - Panelist Perspectives
• 3:05–3:20 PM - Audience Interaction and Discussion
• 3:20–3:25 PM - Closing Reflections

All attendees must also be registered for the India AI Impact Summit 2026.

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Host or Publisher Center for Data Innovation