Visit in Bacău: Digital Literacy and Regional Perspectives
This visit marked a significant milestone in our shared journey toward innovative, ethical, and efficient AI governance tailored to the unique needs of cities and regions. As digital transformation accelerates, artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly vital component of public service delivery. It is no longer just a tool for automation, but a catalyst for transparency, citizen engagement, and improved operational efficiency.
A Collaborative Three-Day Exchange
Over the course of three days, we engaged in intense discussions and insightful study visits all with the common goal of adding value to public administration. The event brought together dedicated partners and experts from Bacau, Tampere, Helsinki, Amsterdam, Piemonte Innova, the Riga Digital Agency, and the Bucharest Regional Development Agency. Together, we explored how AI can help shape the future of public administration across Europe.
From Policy Frameworks to Practical Applications
The first day began with presentations on the local, regional, and national policy frameworks surrounding digitalization and AI, with a particular focus on the current state of Bacau County. Guided by experts, we explored practical examples of AI in diverse sectors such as art, culture, education, healthcare, and tourism.
The agenda continued with an online seminar focusing on digital literacy. Each partner provided an overview of the digital literacy levels within their respective regions, taking into account local assessment frameworks and socio-economic contexts. A panel discussion followed, addressing the new skills and knowledge needed to adopt digital technologies and exploring ways to support the development of these competencies.
Exploring Regional Identity and AI Potential
On the second day, attention shifted to regional discovery. We visited two cities designated as health resorts of national interest, each with a rich historical legacy dating back to the Second World War and a vision for future development using AI tools.
Our discussions focused on how to balance innovation with heritage pursuing the digitalization of public administration while preserving local identity. The North-East Romania Regional Development Agency expressed a clear interest in exploring how AI can revolutionize project evaluation processes. The goal: to enhance efficiency and maintain transparency and rigor in decision-making.
A dedicated session addressed common misconceptions around AI implementation in the public sector. Although debates were at times heated, a clear consensus emerged technology should support, not replace, the human element in public administration.
Discovering Cutting-Edge AI Applications
The third and final day was devoted to site visits showcasing advanced AI applications. At “Vasile Alecsandri” University, we were introduced to AMECA, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot. Used as a research and teaching platform, AMECA combines artificial intelligence with a robotic body. It is capable of communicating in over 50 languages and features microphones, eye-mounted cameras, and facial recognition capabilities.
We also visited the “Prof. Dr. Eduard Apetrei” Buhusi Hospital, where we observed a state-of-the-art robotic system designed to aid patients with neurological conditions. This innovative solution supports faster rehabilitation by helping patients observe their own movements and surroundings, increasing engagement and positively impacting mental wellbeing.
A Shared Commitment to Responsible Innovation
This learning visit was a valuable and inspiring experience for all involved. At the heart of this event was a shared belief: that knowledge exchange, cross-regional collaboration, and co-creation are vital to unlocking AI’s full potential in public administration while ensuring its responsible, ethical use.
Together, we are tackling both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into the public sector. Our focus remains on upholding ethical standards, improving data governance, fostering inclusivity, and driving sustainable innovation. Through strong collaboration, we are building bridges between cities and regions, united by a common goal: to harness the power of AI to create smarter, more resilient, and more citizen-centric public administrations.