EU skills event held at the Cork's Rubicon Centre

The European Commission executive vice-president Roxana Mînzatu joined Skillnet Ireland to participate in an EU skills event at the Rubicon Centre at Munster Technological University (MTU) recently.

The meeting brought together European, national and regional stakeholders to discuss the important role of skills development, artificial intelligence (AI) upskilling, innovation, partnerships and enterprise competitiveness in Ireland and across Europe.

Ms Mînzatu also had the opportunity to take a tour of the Rubicon Centre and to hear the latest on the Entire European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) project, which is based at MTU.

The EDIH consists of a community of tech experts that work together to help and assist European businesses and organisations on their path towards digitalisation.

Ms Mînzatu said she was delighted to be in Ireland to discuss how European businesses can make the most of new technologies including AI.

“AI offers significant opportunities for productivity, innovation and competitiveness. But we must not lose sight of the human centred approach. Companies of all sizes need access to the right skills to use these technologies effectively and responsibly.

“Supporting AI can definitely help transform Europe’s economy. But its success will depend on whether it strengthens the biggest resource we have – people.”

The event also recognised the significant contribution of Skillnet Ireland in connecting Irish enterprises with European skills initiatives.

Mark Jordan, chief executive of Skillnet Ireland added: “As Ireland begins its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, there is a significant opportunity to help shape Europe’s skills agenda and support greater competitiveness across Ireland and the EU.

“Through our Skillnet business networks and national initiatives, Skillnet Ireland is working with businesses to develop the practical AI capabilities needed to drive innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.”