Digital transformation: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Public Administration.

The Seasonal School in Digital Transformation is a capacity-building activity aimed at increasing the knowledge and skills of senior public officials related to innovative policies and practices in the provision of quality user-centric e-services, their usability and safe use, use of emerging technologies, open data and improved governance in data management. 

Public administrations across the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership regions are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to improve service delivery, optimize operations, and respond more effectively to citizens' needs. These technologies hold great potential, but also raise critical questions around governance, ethics, transparency, and skills development.

Recognising this dual opportunity and challenge, ReSPA, SIGMA and the GIZ Regional Project “Public Administration Reform in the Eastern Partnership Countries” join forces in organising the seasonal school with the aim of supporting public officials in navigating the evolving AI landscape, building capacity for responsible and inclusive AI adoption, and fostering collaboration among institutions in the region.

First session on Data Governance & Interoperability, led by DG Nations, addressing how to manage the public sector data lifecycle and implement open data and interoperability strategies.

Sessions on:

• AI Skills for Civil Servants, presented by UNESCO/Oxford University, highlighting competency frameworks and regional best practices in capacity building.
• The concept of an AI Academy for public servants introduced by ReSPA, emphasising the need for structured, ongoing learning.
• AI as Public Infrastructure exploring inclusive access to AI tools, privacy-compliant solutions, and international examples such as the UAE’s national offering of AI services to citizens.
• A hands-on workshop on no-code AI tools, allowing participants to explore AI applications using public sector datasets in a guided session.
• A peer exchange and action planning, reflecting on key takeaways, outlining possible steps within participants' institutions, and identifing needs for technical support or regional co-operation.