Greece's Potential as a Regional AI Hub
Greece has the potential to become a regional hub for artificial intelligence (AI) in Southeast Europe, according to Professor Christos Tarantilis, partner and head of the central government and public sector at EY Greece. This vision could attract significant foreign investment, encourage research, and establish Greece as an international gateway for AI development between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
However, realizing this favorable scenario requires Greece to act swiftly and intelligently in three key areas, as technological advancements are rapid, and international competition is fierce.
The first direction involves enhancing the potential of human resources. A recent study by EY, the Athens University of Economics and Business, and Endeavor Greece reveals that Greek universities meet only half of the market's demand for specialized IT executives, graduating 4,500 professionals annually. However, the market already requires twice as many. To address this gap, Greece should invest in education and training programs to develop a skilled workforce capable of driving AI innovation.
The second direction involves attracting substantial private investments. Greece can encourage AI development by creating a favorable business environment, offering incentives, and promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors. By attracting international AI companies and startups, Greece can foster innovation, create jobs, and boost its economy.
The third direction requires the development of an institutional framework or accelerator to ensure legitimacy and eliminate bureaucratic obstacles. This framework should facilitate AI research, development, and implementation, while also addressing ethical concerns and regulatory issues. By establishing a supportive infrastructure, Greece can create a thriving AI ecosystem that fosters innovation and growth.
In conclusion, Greece's potential as a regional AI hub offers significant opportunities for foreign investment, research, and technological advancement. By focusing on human resources, attracting private investments, and creating a supportive institutional framework, Greece can position itself as a leader in AI innovation and a gateway for international collaboration.