Artificial intelligence is transforming IT at a speed we have never experienced before, affecting not only businesses but also the state. The panelists emphasized that alongside opportunities come major demands on security and education. Slovakia has strong human potential, but it needs more investment, smarter procurement, and support for talent.
AI as an accelerator and a test of resilience
According to voices from the AI summit, the current wave of artificial intelligence is orders of magnitude faster and greater in its impact than the industrial revolution, and IT is among the most affected sectors. It can bring companies higher productivity and the ability to deliver more products and services, while at the same time raising demands on cybersecurity, data protection, and clear internal policies, especially in sensitive areas such as healthcare. The trend of hybrid work, accelerated by the pandemic, puts demands on security policies, training, and ongoing reskilling of employees. Those who stop investing in learning lose value in the labor market.
Slovakia between potential and slowdown
The technological level of our people is high, but startups and innovation often run into an “investment drought,” even though investor interest in AI is growing. The state can be a strong driver if it improves processes – from public procurement to the use of shared components where it makes sense – while leaving ministries responsible for the “business ownership” of solutions. An open dialogue and the ability to test technologies over longer periods are important; formal market consultations often come too late. Ultimately, value arises in symbiosis: the state has the data and mandate, companies the know-how and technologies.
Labor market, skills, and diversity
In a survey across 12 countries, nearly three quarters of employees expect AI to improve their performance and work–life balance; the use of AI at work rose over the year from 38% to 66%, but the share of those who fear for their jobs increased from 5% to 37%. AI is changing roles: it will not fully replace programmers, but demand is growing for architects, analysts, and people who can precisely formulate requirements and understand processes. The key is systematic education across disciplines and working with pupils already in elementary schools, where teachers and parents have a strong influence. There is catching up to do in diversity: women make up 16–17% in IT in Slovakia (around a fifth in Europe), although there are examples of progress – NASES has approximately 39% women and the company Detek around 30% women overall as well as in the broader leadership, alongside activities to support girls in AI.
