Slovenia's biggest challenge is not technology, but the lack of knowledge

When we talk about digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the future of work, we often think of technology first. New digital solutions, automation, robots and artificial intelligence. In reality, however, the biggest challenge for Slovenia is not technology. As Prof. Dr. Tjaša Rareek from the Faculty of Economics of the University of Ljubljana points out at the 6th Open Forum of the Slovenian Digital Coalition, which took place on 22 May 2026 at the House of the European Union in Ljubljana, the biggest challenge is people, knowledge and the ability to adapt to change.

Slovenia is facing a paradox today. On the one hand, digital technologies are increasingly available, businesses are investing in digitalisation and AI is becoming part of everyday work. On the other hand, more than half of adults still lack adequate digital competences and the economy is facing a shortage of professionals in many areas.

Digitalisation is no longer a choice, but a condition for competitiveness. Companies that successfully deploy digital technologies achieve higher productivity, greater innovation and are better able to create products and services with higher added value. But technology in itself does not produce results. Successful digital transformation requires people who know how to use, understand and integrate technology into work processes.

Skills and Adaptability: The Future of Work

According to Dr. Tjaša, the rare future of work will not be based primarily on routine tasks, but on knowledge, creativity and the ability to adapt. As AI and automation change the structure of workplaces, competences such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, cooperation and lifelong learning will become increasingly important.

That is why investing in knowledge is becoming one of Slovenia's most important development tasks. It is not only about digital competences, but also about strengthening the education system, training employees, developing new staff and creating an environment that stimulates innovation and development.

The field of education is also a particular challenge. Slovenia is already facing a shortage of teachers of mathematics, science subjects and digital specialists. Technology can help with learning, but it cannot replace the role of teachers. They remain crucial in developing critical thinking, motivation and the ability to adapt to change.

Connecting Technology, Knowledge and People

If Slovenia wants to increase productivity, create jobs with higher added value and remain competitive in the European area, it will have to invest significantly more in skills development, research, innovation and people. Technology will be an important accelerator in this, but it will not be enough on its own.

Prof. Dr. Tjaša Redek spoke about these challenges and opportunities in more detail at the 6th Open Forum of the Slovenian Digital Coalition, which took place on 22 May 2026 at the House of the European Union in Ljubljana. Its core message was clear: The future of Slovenia will largely depend on how successfully we can connect technology, knowledge and people.