Lithuania – Artificial Intelligence Strategy “A Vision of the Future”
The Lithuanian Artificial Intelligence Strategy “A Vision of the Future”, published in April 2019, was developed by Ministry of Economy and Innovation
The focus of Lithuanian national strategic plan for artificial intelligence is split into six key sections:
- Ethical and legal core principles for the development and use of artificial intelligence.
- A break down of Lithuania’s position in the AI ecosystem.
- Integration of artificial intelligence systems across all economic sectors.
- National development of skills and competencies needed for a future with artificial intelligence.
- Growth of Artificial Intelligence Research and Development.
- A responsible and efficient approach to data.
Throughout the strategy, Lithuania emphasizes the importance of economic development and future changes in the job market, with automation of the industry, skill and competence development has been set as one of the top priorities. To better prepare citizens and address the upcoming changes from the skill and competence development perspective: a three-point system based on 3 principles has been proposed:
Education Reform: to develop the skills needed for a future with AI from the beginning of education. Schools need to revise their curriculum to prioritize technical skills essential for a future intertwined with AI. This is especially crucial in regions reliant on manufacturing, where job susceptibility to automation is highest. Encouraging STEM education can foster a positive relationship with technology.
Higher Education Adaptation: to provide students in higher education learning opportunities for AI. Higher education institutions should integrate AI and technological coursework into programs not traditionally focused on these areas. Fields with a high risk of automation should offer classes teaching skills necessary to adapt to AI-driven changes.
Vocational Training for Current Workforce: to ensure the current labor force has the competencies needed for a shifting job market. The current labor force requires upskilling to effectively navigate a future with AI. Vocational training programs should be tailored to those in occupations with the greatest automation risk, focusing on augmenting current work processes with AI rather than complete job replacement.
The full text
Strategy Details
In total 39 different AI projects received funding from Ministry of Economy and Innovation initiatives, totaling EUR 12.5 million since 2016. AI academic research projects also received EUR 6.5 million under the Ministry of Education and Science.
The main stakeholders of the strategy are Ministry of Economy and Innovation, INFOBALT, Vytauto Didžiojo Universitetas, Oxipit, Lemon Labs, BPTI, Pixevia, Advantes Technologies, Tilde informacinės technologijos, Neurotechnology, Unity and Kurk Lietuvai.
