NSDA AI & Digital Skills Courses: Available Programs for 2026

Thailand's AI Training Landscape

Thailand has made significant investments in AI workforce development as part of its Thailand 4.0 economic transformation strategy. The National AI Strategy (2022-2027), developed by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), sets a target of training 20,000 AI specialists and 700,000 AI-literate workers by 2027. Multiple government agencies contribute to this goal through overlapping but complementary training programmes, creating one of the most comprehensive government-funded AI training ecosystems in Southeast Asia.

The Thai government's commitment to AI workforce development is backed by substantial investment. The national budget allocates funds to DSD training centres, depa digital economy programmes, and university partnerships. For individuals, this means access to free or heavily subsidised AI courses across the country. For employers, it means the opportunity to train their workforce in AI at minimal cost through tax deductions and government subsidies.

Department of Skill Development (DSD) AI Courses

At Institute of Skill Development (ISD) Centres

The 12 ISD regional centres offer the most advanced government AI training. These centres are equipped with modern computer labs, AI development workstations, and industry-standard software. Training is delivered by certified instructors with both academic qualifications and industry experience.

1. AI and Machine Learning Fundamentals — 120 hours. Covers core AI concepts including supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, deep learning basics, and practical applications in Thai industry contexts. Uses Python and popular ML frameworks including scikit-learn and TensorFlow. Includes hands-on projects applying AI to real datasets. Available at ISD centres in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Songkhla.

2. Data Science and Analytics — 90 hours. Comprehensive coverage of data collection methodologies, data cleaning and preparation, statistical analysis, data visualisation with Tableau and Power BI, and introduction to predictive analytics. Includes a capstone project where learners analyse a real-world dataset. Available at most ISD centres across Thailand.

3. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) — 60 hours. Practical introduction to automation using UiPath and Microsoft Power Automate. Covers process analysis and identification of automation candidates, bot development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Particularly popular among service sector workers looking to automate repetitive tasks. Includes certification preparation for UiPath Associate Developer.

4. IoT and Smart Systems — 80 hours. Covers sensors, microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), data collection protocols, edge computing, and basic AI inference at the edge. Designed primarily for Industry 4.0 applications in manufacturing but also relevant for smart agriculture, smart buildings, and environmental monitoring. Students build working IoT prototypes during the course.

5. Digital Marketing with AI — 40 hours. Using AI tools for content creation, social media analytics, customer segmentation, advertising optimisation, and marketing campaign management. Covers practical use of AI-powered marketing platforms and generative AI tools for content. One of the most popular courses across DSD centres due to its broad applicability to Thai businesses of all sizes.

6. Cybersecurity with AI — 60 hours. Fundamentals of network security, threat detection, vulnerability assessment, and the use of AI-powered security tools for monitoring and incident response. Particularly relevant given Thailand's growing digital economy and the increasing cyber threat landscape.

At Provincial Skill Development Centres

Provincial centres offer foundational digital courses that serve as stepping stones to more advanced ISD programmes. While not as specialised as ISD centres, these facilities are crucial for reaching Thailand's provincial workforce:

1. Basic Digital Literacy — 30 hours. Computer fundamentals, internet navigation, email management, and introduction to AI-powered productivity tools like Google Assistant and Microsoft Copilot. Essential for workers with limited prior digital experience.
2. Office Productivity with AI — 40 hours. Using AI features in Microsoft 365 (Copilot), Google Workspace (Gemini), and common Thai business applications. Covers document creation, spreadsheet analysis, presentation design, and email management with AI assistance.
3. E-Commerce and Digital Business — 60 hours. Setting up and managing online businesses using platforms popular in Thailand including Shopee, Lazada, and LINE, with AI tools for product photography, dynamic pricing, customer service chatbots, and inventory management. Highly relevant for Thailand's large SME sector.
4. Social Media and Content Creation — 40 hours. Managing social media presence on platforms popular in Thailand (Facebook, LINE, TikTok, Instagram) with AI-powered tools for content creation, scheduling, and analytics.

Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) Programmes

depa operates several AI training initiatives that complement DSD's offerings with a stronger focus on innovation and entrepreneurship:

Coding Thailand

A nationwide coding and AI literacy programme that has become Thailand's largest digital skills initiative:

• Free online courses in Python programming, AI basics, data science, and web development, hosted on a dedicated learning platform
• Physical coding boot camps in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Khon Kaen, and other major cities, typically running 8-12 weeks
• Partnerships with global education platforms including Coursera, edX, Microsoft Learn, and Google Digital Garage
• Certificate upon completion, recognised by Thai employers and increasingly used in recruitment
• Over 500,000 registered learners and a growing alumni network that provides career support
• Specialised tracks for different career paths: AI Engineer, Data Analyst, Web Developer, and Digital Marketer

depa Digital Transformation Courses

Targeted at SME employees, entrepreneurs, and corporate professionals:

• AI for Business Leaders — 3-day intensive programme covering AI strategy, use case identification, ROI calculation, vendor evaluation, and implementation planning. Designed for executives and senior managers who need to understand AI without getting technical.
• AI for Operations — 5-day hands-on programme covering AI tools for process improvement, customer analytics, inventory management, demand forecasting, and quality control. Aimed at operations managers and team leads who will implement AI in daily workflows.
• AI for Developers — 10-day advanced programme covering ML model development, neural network architecture, model deployment and monitoring, API development, and cloud platform integration using AWS, GCP, and Azure. Designed for software engineers and IT professionals building AI systems.
• AI for Government — 3-day programme specifically designed for government officials, covering AI applications in public services, data governance, and responsible AI principles. Part of depa's public sector digital transformation mandate.

depa Grants for Training

SMEs can apply for depa digital transformation grants to fund AI training and related activities:

• Mini grants: Up to THB 100,000 per company for digital skills training, covering course fees, certification costs, training materials, and some travel expenses. Application through the depa website with a transformation proposal. Approval typically within 4-6 weeks.
• Midi grants: THB 100,001 to THB 1,000,000 for larger digital transformation projects that include workforce training. Requires a detailed business case and covers up to 50% of total project costs.
• Maxi grants: Over THB 1,000,000 for industry-wide or consortium-based digital transformation programmes. Designed for industry associations or groups of companies pursuing shared AI training infrastructure.

Thailand 4.0 University Partnerships

Under Thailand 4.0, the government has partnered with leading Thai universities to offer subsidised AI courses for working professionals. These programmes provide more advanced and specialised training than DSD centres, bridging the gap between foundational skills and research-level AI capabilities:

• Chulalongkorn University: AI and Data Science short courses (2-5 days), partially subsidised for Thai professionals. The university's Engineering and Science faculties offer specialised modules in NLP, computer vision, and reinforcement learning. Also hosts the Chula AI Centre, which offers industry collaboration programmes.
• Thammasat University: Digital Innovation Certificate Programme, a comprehensive series of AI modules covering business analytics, machine learning, and digital strategy. Scholarships available for qualifying applicants through government funding. Evening and weekend schedules accommodate working professionals.
• King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL): AI Engineering short courses with industry partnership placements. Known for strong connections to Thailand's manufacturing and automotive sectors, KMITL's AI courses emphasise practical industrial applications including computer vision for quality control and predictive maintenance.
• Mahidol University: AI in Healthcare certification, co-developed with the Ministry of Public Health. Covers AI applications in medical imaging, drug discovery, patient risk prediction, and hospital operations. Particularly relevant as Thailand positions itself as a regional medical tourism and health technology hub.
• Asian Institute of Technology (AIT): International-standard AI programmes taught in English, with connections to industry partners across Asia. Offers short executive programmes and longer certificate courses in AI and data science.

TPQI AI Professional Qualifications

The Thailand Professional Qualification Institute has established occupational standards for digital and AI roles, providing a formal career progression framework:

• Data Analyst: Levels 3-5, covering data collection and management (L3), statistical analysis and visualisation (L4), and advanced analytics with AI and ML (L5). Each level requires passing both written and practical assessments.
• Software Developer: Levels 3-6, with AI/ML specialisation tracks available at levels 5-6. Covers software engineering fundamentals through to AI system architecture and deployment.
• Digital Marketing Professional: Levels 3-5, including digital analytics (L3), AI-powered campaign management (L4), and strategic AI-driven marketing (L5).
• Cybersecurity Analyst: Levels 3-5, including security monitoring (L3), AI-powered threat detection and incident response (L4), and security architecture with AI integration (L5).
• IoT Systems Professional: Levels 3-5, covering device management, data pipeline engineering, and AI-at-the-edge deployment.

These qualifications are assessed at TPQI-certified assessment centres located in Bangkok and major regional cities, and are aligned with ASEAN standards for regional recognition.

How to Enrol

DSD Centre Courses

1. Visit the Department of Skill Development website (www.dsd.go.th) or your nearest provincial centre
2. Check the course schedule and available seats — popular AI courses fill quickly, so early registration is recommended
3. Register with your Thai national ID card and any required educational certificates
4. Attend training at the designated centre (most courses are free for Thai citizens)
5. Complete all modules, practical exercises, and the final assessment
6. Receive your DSD skill certificate, which can be verified online

depa Programmes

1. Visit the depa website (www.depa.or.th) or the Coding Thailand platform (www.codingthailand.org)
2. Browse available courses by topic, format (online/in-person), and schedule
3. Register online and complete any prerequisite assessments
4. For grants, submit a digital transformation proposal through the depa portal with a clear business case
5. Attend training and complete all requirements including assessments and projects
6. Receive depa certificate of completion and access alumni support networks

University Short Courses

1. Contact the university's continuing education or extension department directly
2. Check for government-subsidised seats — these are allocated in limited numbers each semester
3. Register and pay any applicable fees (often 30-50% reduced for government-sponsored seats)
4. Complete coursework, assignments, and assessments per university requirements
5. Receive university certificate of completion or credit toward diploma programmes

Pertama Partners NSDA-Aligned AI Courses

Pertama Partners offers enterprise AI training in Thailand that complements government programmes. Our courses are designed to meet TPQI occupational standards while delivering practical, business-ready AI capabilities that go beyond foundational skills.

We bridge the gap between government-funded basics and advanced enterprise AI deployment, with programmes covering:

• AI strategy and use case identification for Thai businesses
• Hands-on ML model development with industry-specific datasets
• AI implementation and change management
• Responsible AI governance aligned with Thai regulatory frameworks

Contact us to learn which of our programmes qualify for the 200% tax deduction and how to combine government subsidies with advanced AI training for maximum impact.