ASEAN Data Science Explorers (ASEAN DSE) is the ASEAN Foundation’s longest-running digital initiative, supported by SAP, aimed at strengthening data literacy and digital skills among ASEAN youth. Since 2017, the programme has empowered students across the region to harness data for social impact, with a focus on real-world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Targeted at tertiary students from all ten ASEAN Member States, ASEAN DSE combines a regional data analytics competition with capacity-building sessions. Using SAP Analytics Cloud, students develop data-driven solutions that address critical issues in areas such as education, health, environment, and economic development.

To broaden impact, the programme also offers enablement sessions for both students and educators. These hands-on workshops provide foundational knowledge in data analytics and storytelling, tailored to local contexts and delivered in collaboration with local partners.

Beyond skills development, ASEAN DSE promotes regional awareness and integration, supporting key ASEAN priorities outlined in ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together, the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025, and the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint 2025.

Now at the start of its ninth cycle in 2025, the programme has reached over 100,000 youth, including those from underserved communities, and trained more than 3,300 educators across 880 higher education institutions and 297 schools, in collaboration with 188 local partners.