The first major topic of the meeting was artificial intelligence in education. The discussion focused on how AI is changing the way we learn and teach – from new teaching tools to opportunities for developing advanced digital skills and promoting lifelong learning. It was concluded that although AI brings changes, it also opens many new opportunities for students and teachers.
The second important topic was the internationalization of higher education. Participants emphasized that it is no longer just about attracting foreign students, but about a broader process that includes collaboration between faculties and universities, improving the quality of teaching, and systematic support at the national and strategic levels. This approach can create students ready for the global labor market. Today, internationalization is no longer just an option – it is becoming a necessity.
In addition to these topics, the issue of demographic challenges was also raised. Fewer young people are enrolling in studies, while the demand for experts is growing, which makes international cooperation and attracting students from other countries an important part of the solution. That is why these three topics – artificial intelligence, internationalization, and demography – are closely interconnected and require a joint approach.
The meeting was hosted by FOI, with participants including:
Prof. Marina Klačmer Čalopa, Ph.D., Dean of FOI
Prof. Valter Boljunčić, Ph.D., Vice-Rector for Artificial Intelligence, Digitalization and Entrepreneurship, University of Pula
Prof. Patrizia Poščić, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Informatics and Digital Technologies, University of Rijeka
Prof. Marko Mihić, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Belgrade
Assoc. Prof. Tomislav Matić, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology Osijek, University of Osijek
Prof. Polona Šprajc, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Maribor
Assist. Prof. Tomislav Jagušt, Ph.D., Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb
Assoc. Prof. Ljubica Milanović, Ph.D., Vice-Dean for Study Programs, Communication and Digitalization, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb
Assoc. Prof. Ivan Malbašić, Ph.D., Vice-Dean for Business and Human Resources, FOI
Assoc. Prof. Martina Tomičić Furjan, Ph.D., Vice-Dean for Science, Projects and International Cooperation, FOI
The meeting concluded with an agreement on further cooperation and joint initiatives.
