Yandex and Komdigi Open Free Machine Learning Training for the Public

Yandex, in collaboration with the Digital Talent Scholarship (DTS) programme under the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi), has launched a free online machine learning training and competition programme to enhance the competence of Indonesia’s digital talent in artificial intelligence (AI). The programme, titled ‘Linear Models in Machine Learning: Fundamentals, Applications, and Competition’, is open for registration from 29 June to 19 July 2026 and is available to the general public, particularly students from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Yandex Search Chief Executive Officer Alexander Popovskiy stated that the programme is designed to allow people from various backgrounds to learn AI and machine learning through applicable learning. ‘We designed this programme for anyone who wants to keep learning, regardless of age or professional background. This year, we are opening the opportunity for everyone who wants to learn AI and Machine Learning to join,’ Alexander said in a statement on Tuesday. He noted that participants will not only learn the basic concepts of machine learning but will also gain experience building models based on Python and Scikit-learn through practical exercises, case studies, and solving challenges using data. The programme covers material on the fundamentals of machine learning, data preprocessing techniques, linear regression model development, model evaluation and validation, and the application of AI to meet business needs. The training is structured through a collaboration between Yandex and the Communication and Digital Human Resources Development Agency (BPSDM Komdigi) with a phased learning method consisting of self-paced learning, mentor sessions, hands-on labs, assignments, evaluations, and a competition. The first batch will run from 20 July to 23 August 2026, featuring four learning modules guided by mentors from local companies operating in the machine learning field. Participants who complete all modules and pass the final assessment will have the opportunity to take part in an online hackathon competition on 4–6 September 2026 to develop machine learning-based solutions for case studies prepared by the organisers. Head of the Communication and Digital Human Resources Development Agency, Bonifasius Pudjianto, said Indonesia needs more talent in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science to support various strategic sectors. ‘Indonesia needs more Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Science talent in various sectors, ranging from transportation, agriculture, and health to other priority sectors,’ said Bonifasius. He assessed that the training can serve as a foundation for participants to develop competencies relevant to industry needs while producing AI-based solutions that have an impact across various sectors. In the 2025 edition, a similar programme was attended by 1,295 participants and produced three hackathon winners as well as dozens of participants who received awards for their learning achievements. Registration for the training programme is open until 19 July 2026 via the official Digital Talent Scholarship Komdigi website.