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POLICY ANSWERS: How did you become an Ambassador for the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative?
As someone deeply engaged in education, research, and innovation within artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sustainable engineering, I recognized the immense potential of the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative to bridge the skills gap in Europe. The Initiative’s mission to empower one million talents in deep tech areas strongly aligns with my professional values and the strategic direction of the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. As part of this effort, the course I developed and teach at the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, “Data Science, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence,” successfully passed the EIT’s rigorous quality assessment and was officially included in the list of EIT Deep Tech Talent courses. This recognition affirmed that our approach aligns with EIT’s high standards, and it further motivated me to support the Initiative’s mission actively. Through active participation in the initiative and a strong commitment to educating deep tech talents, my engagement was recognized by EIT. After being awarded the “Trainer of the Year 2024” by EIT Deep Tech Talent, I was selected as one of the first Ambassadors of the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative. My primary motivation is to contribute to a cause I strongly believe in – the training of one million young talents across Europe in deep tech areas.
POLICY ANSWERS: How do you see your role influencing the development of deep tech skills across Europe?
I actively promote the integration of deep tech education into university curricula while also supporting cross-sectoral cooperation with industry partners. As an Ambassador, I see my role as an educator, promoter, and connector – linking students, researchers, and institutions in the Western Balkans with the wider European deep tech ecosystem. By sharing good practices, initiating collaborations, and engaging in policy discussions, I aim to enhance access to high-quality deep tech training and support the inclusion of underrepresented regions in the European deep tech landscape.
The Deep Tech Talent Initiative can play a crucial role in transforming society by equipping young people and professionals with deep tech skills. By promoting fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, clean energy, and digital manufacturing in education, the Initiative supports green and digital transitions, which are the key to sustainable economic development. Moreover, fostering a strong talent base in the Western Balkans reduces brain drain and empowers local ecosystems to generate innovative solutions tailored to future sustainable economic development.
POLICY ANSWERS: What unique perspective or experience do you bring to this initiative?
Coming from the Western Balkans, I bring first-hand insight into the specific challenges and opportunities of developing deep tech capacities. With extensive experience on EU-funded projects (Erasmus+, EIT, Interreg) and a strong academic track record in deep tech fields, I understand both the institutional transformation required and the importance of context-specific approaches. My work in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, digital twins, industrial engineering, AI-driven sustainability, entrepreneurship, and innovation gives me a specific viewpoint that can contribute to making the Initiative both inclusive and impactful. Also, it ensures that the Deep Tech Talent Initiative not only reaches the Western Balkan region but also empowers it to become an active contributor to Europe’s Deep Tech future.
