ADFIAP Strengthens DFI Capabilities Through Strategic AI Integration Workshop
As the financial sector accelerates into a new era of digital transformation, the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) continues to equip its members with the tools and competencies needed to lead. From March 23–26, 2026, ADFIAP successfully delivered the online seminar-workshop, “Harnessing AI: Strategic Imperatives for DFIs,” a program designed to elevate the technological readiness of development finance institutions across the region.
The workshop opened with an inspirational message from Secretary-General Enrique I. Florencio, who underscored that leadership in development finance now demands not only financial expertise but also command of emerging technologies. He emphasized that DFIs must be proactive in adopting AI to remain relevant, resilient, and responsive to the evolving needs of their stakeholders
The workshop saw active participation from ADFIAP members representing a diverse geographic spread from Saudi Arabia, Samoa, and the Philippines.
Testimonials:
Led by renowned expert Dr. Eduardo Canela, PhD, the four-day intensive program shifted away from broader thematic topics like climate change to focus directly on the professional development of DFI officers. It was specifically designed and structured to bridge the gap between theoretical AI and its practical application in daily operations, moving participants from AI literacy to strategic implementation: foundations & tools, operational excellence, data & ethics, and the power of ecosystems.
To maximize exposure, diverse case studies were utilized from outside the realm of the ADFIAP region. By using AI to analyze credit and loan applications for these international projects, participants gained the confidence to apply similar logic to their local DFI contexts.
By the close of the ceremony on March 26, participants left not just with new software skills, but with a strategic framework to foster a culture of innovation within their respective organizations, ensuring that development finance remains competitive and impactful in an AI-driven world.
For information on similar trainings, please send e-mail to inquiries@adfiap.org
