Malta's Representatives to Join Latvian Conference on AI and Economic Growth for the First Time
The “Future-Thinking Afternoon” expert event, organised by Turība business university, will have an international focus for the first time, with Maltese government representatives taking part. Participants will discuss what is needed for artificial intelligence to deliver lasting economic returns in Latvia.
An expert event called “Nākotnēšanas pēcpusdiena” (roughly, “Future-Thinking Afternoon”), organised by the Turība business university, will examine how artificial intelligence (AI) can support Latvia's economic growth. For the first time the event has an international focus, with representatives of the Maltese government taking part. The theme matters because Latvia is looking for ways to turn technological potential into competitiveness and benefits for society.
Malta is described as one of the world's leaders in adopting AI. It deliberately introduces AI in public administration and develops employee skills, and the share of its companies using AI exceeds the European Union average. Particular attention is paid to making AI's opportunities available to every resident.
Programme
The event will be opened by Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, Turība owner Aigars Rostovskis and rector Zane Driņķe. The programme is designed to move from the international context and Latvia's ambitions to cooperation models, practical technology adoption and action priorities for 2027.
Dr. Jeremy G. House, an education-sector expert and investor from Austria, will give a presentation titled “What Makes Education Worth Investing In”. He will analyse the role of public-private partnerships and digital transformation in strengthening education systems. Joseph Tedesco, IT director at the Maltese Prime Minister's Office, will present “From Digital Ambition to Impact: Malta's Experience”, describing how digital skills, data, technology and institutional reforms have been turned into practical solutions and measurable results.
Main discussion
The panel “What Does It Take for AI to Deliver Real Value?” will bring together experts from academia, innovation, business and investment, as well as Maltese representatives. The talk will focus on skills, innovation and investment: how to build the necessary competences, turn ideas into working solutions, attract capital, and help Latvian companies scale and export innovations.
At the end, participants will define three to five strategic priorities for Latvia to pursue in 2027. The discussion will also address the role of the “Knowledge Mile” as an ecosystem combining skills, research, innovation, business and investment.
“Technological development by itself does not yet guarantee economic growth or public wellbeing,” says Zane Driņķe. In her words, a clear vision, suitable skills and close cooperation between universities, public administration and businesses are needed.
