The Polkadot Blockchain Academy (PBA) is introducing a pioneering educational program specifically tailored for government officials. This course aims to enhance policymakers’ comprehension of blockchain technology and the decentralized web, Web3.

Scheduled for April 6th to 8th, 2025, the “Blockchain Basics for Policymakers” course will take place in Zug, Switzerland. This location, often referred to as Crypto Valley, is recognized for its supportive regulatory environment for blockchain innovation.

According to an announcement on February 17th, a group of Members of Parliament (MPs) from the United Kingdom’s major political parties will participate in this inaugural session. The delegation will be headed by Lisa Cameron, founder of the UKUS Crypto Alliance and a former MP from 2015 to 2024, as reported by Cointelegraph.

Cameron emphasized the course’s timeliness, noting the significant expansion of the UK crypto industry:

“Given the increasing significance of blockchain technology for the UK’s technological landscape, it is vital that those who create policy possess the necessary knowledge to make well-informed decisions.”

She further stated, “The Polkadot Blockchain Academy’s initial course presents a valuable chance for MPs to gain direct understanding of the practical applications of Web3.”

On January 10th, the UK Treasury updated financial regulations to specify that crypto staking does not classify as a collective investment scheme, which is subject to strict regulation in the UK.

This regulatory update signals progress on the Treasury’s commitment from November 2024 to develop a preliminary regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies by early 2025.

Policymakers are “key” to guiding blockchain’s trajectory

Chrissy Hill, Chief Legal Officer and Interim COO at Parity Technologies, stressed the importance of educating regulators for the crypto sector’s future growth. Hill, who is also attending the course, commented in a statement to Cointelegraph:

“Policymakers are essential in determining the evolution of blockchain, yet they have traditionally lacked organized educational resources on its technical and legal underpinnings.”

Hill added that the “Polkadot Blockchain Academy aims to address this gap, empowering decision-makers with the resources needed to develop effective policies that promote innovation while ensuring necessary protections.”

This course marks the beginning of Polkadot’s worldwide initiative, with plans to expand to other important regions.