LocationsInternational Conference AI_4_LIFE: Biotech Future Forum
October 24, 2024
The third international conference AI_4_LIFE: Biotech Future Forum, organised by the Government of the Republic of Serbia in cooperation with the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation, the Office for IT and eGovernment, the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the World Economic Forum and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the support of BIO4 Campus, was officially opened today in Belgrade.
This year's conference will bring together more than 1,000 participants from over 15 countries, along with 66 international speakers, including representatives from governments, the academic community, scientists, research organisations and the business sector.
"We have gathered here to explore the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and biotechnology—two fields that are decisively shaping our future. As a scientist and someone deeply passionate about science and new technologies, I believe we are living in extraordinary times. Not only are we witnessing technological transformation, but we are also experiencing changes in our lifestyles, in our societies, and even in our evolution as a species", said minister Begović in her address.
She emphasized that technological progress is accelerating. "We are living in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where innovation is reshaping every aspect of our lives. With that in mind, we must ask ourselves: Are we ready to lead these changes, or will we simply observe from the sidelines? Serbia has chosen not only to participate but to lead. Our commitment to innovation is evident through initiatives like the BIO4 Campus, which aims to position Serbia as a key European and global hub for biotechnology", the minister concluded.
The conference will address topics such as national strategies for the development and application of artificial intelligence, as well as its impact on healthcare, agriculture and environmental protection. Particular attention will be paid to big data processing, genetic innovations, and new opportunities in healthcare, which increasingly rely on biotechnology and artificial intelligence.
Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, Mirek Dušek, commended the Government of Serbia's dedication to advancing the biotechnology agenda, highlighting the importance of their partnership with the World Economic Forum. “Serbia contributes leadership and unique insights to the global dialogue facilitated by the Forum, aligning with our mission to drive positive change and improve the state of the world. The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution—Serbia has become a reliable partner in this effort, leading the World Economic Forum’s initiatives to shape global policies, programs, and frameworks for responsible biotech development”.
Mr. Dušek emphasized the significance of the Biotech Future Forum, stating, “The convergence of biotechnology with AI, quantum computing, and robotics is essential to driving transformation, leading us toward safer, more secure, and prosperous societies. As these technologies advance, their potential to tackle global challenges grows, making this a pivotal moment where science, sustainability, and social progress align. The Biotech Future Forum serves as a crucial platform to discuss the transformative potential of these technological innovations and to explore how they can be harnessed for the greater good”.
UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Director for Europe and CIS, Ivana Živković, said that the Pact for the Future, recently adopted by the UN General Assembly, reaffirmed the world-wide commitment to sustainable development, digital cooperation and advancing technological capacities to benefit all people and protect our planet.
“Biotechnology and artificial intelligence provide us with solutions to a range of interlinked global challenges, including health crises, climate change and food security. To boost innovation, UNDP supports the Government of Serbia in its pursuit of a knowledge-based economy. We are helping establish the environment conducive to research and development in biotechnology and development of the local biotech ecosystem. We are engaged in Government's comprehensive efforts to digitize the health sector and assist the work of the newly formed national AI Council," said Živković.
Among the participants are globally renowned figures, including Dr. Christopher Voigt, Head of the Biological Engineering Department at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the world's most prestigious scientific institutions, and Dr. George Yancopoulos, the founder of Regeneron, a company considered a leader in the modern pharmaceutical industry.
The ceremonial opening was attended by the Director of the Office for IT and eGovernment, Dr. Mihailo Jovanović, and the Director of the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Jelena Bojović.
