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Empowering Society in Advanced Digital Skills

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries and daily life, acquiring advanced digital skills is no longer optional—it is essential. The MERIT project stands at the forefront of this transformation, actively contributing to societal edification by equipping various demographic groups with knowledge in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.

Through targeted educational initiatives, MERIT is bridging the digital skills gap and fostering an AI-literate society among different society groups. This post shares the activities, carried out by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH), during the 2024/2025 academic year Autumn’s semester.

Empowering the Next Generation

Since September 2024, VILNIUS TECH has led an extensive outreach campaign under the MERIT project, conducting 33 visits to different Lithuanian secondary schools. These visits have provided AI and cybersecurity training to over 2,000 pupils, ensuring that young minds are not only aware of cutting-edge technologies but also understand their ethical implications and security concerns. This initiative is instrumental in preparing students for the digital economy and future careers in technology. Only by understanding the possibilities and limitations of new technologies, the pupils will be able to utilize its all potential and dive deeper towards its implementation for the future development.

Upskilling the Workforce

Recognizing the importance of digital skills in professional environments, MERIT has conducted specialized training sessions for employees of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Over 100 professionals across various sectors have been upskilled and consulted on AI applications, enhancing their ability to leverage technology for business growth and innovation. By equipping employees with practical AI knowledge, MERIT is fostering a more competitive and tech-savvy workforce. The education activities over-reached Lithuanian borders and some training session were done for foreign country institutions employees too.

The main goal of the training sessions was oriented to highlighting different AI areas, not limiting it to Generative AI and chatbot functionality and demonstrating its application possibilities for different task automation. As a result, some of the training now is leading to collaboration in the development of new solutions or joining master-level short-term courses.

Advancing Higher Education

MERIT’s commitment to the edification of advanced digital skills is mainly oriented to newly developed master’s study programs. For this purpose, 4 new master study programs were developed and 1 updated. At VILNIUS TECH 2 master’s study programs were created – Engineering of Artificial Intelligence and Management of Artificial Intelligence Solutions. Close to the first cohort of master’s students, the MERIT project dedicated four study courses as short-term courses to join for free listeners. This is a way to upskill in advanced AI topics, together with master’s students. This approach not only cultivates AI expertise but also contributes to a stronger research and development ecosystem.

Engaging the Elderly Community

AI is not just for students and professionals—it impacts every generation. MERIT has taken a proactive step toward digital inclusivity by visiting different Lithuanian cities with the Communications Regulatory Authority of the Republic of Lithuania initiative “No one is forgotten”. Within this collaboration, VILNIUS TECH engaged with over 1,000 elderly individuals at Third Age Universities. These sessions have introduced AI’s possibilities and threats, helping senior citizens navigate the digital landscape with confidence and awareness.

Fostering Collaborative Research from Young Age

Another vital initiative under MERIT is ResearchSchool.tech, a program designed to bring together secondary school students, their teachers, and researchers to collaborate on joint projects. This year, four teams were formed, focusing on cybersecurity-related research. The students worked on projects and shared their findings with each other, and some are even preparing scientific publications to disseminate their results. This initiative not only enhances students’ understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges but also fosters a culture of research and innovation from an early age.

Shaping a Digitally Literate Society

The MERIT project exemplifies dedication to fostering a digitally literate society by educating various community groups and ensuring that AI, cybersecurity and IoT knowledge reaches diverse audiences. Whether it is students, professionals, or seniors, MERIT’s initiatives provide them with the tools to understand and embrace digital transformation. Through these efforts, Lithuania is seeking to take a position as a leader in digital education and AI readiness.

As technology continues to evolve, initiatives like MERIT serve as vital pillars of societal development. By expanding digital literacy and skills, we ensure that every individual—regardless of age or profession—can thrive in the digital era. If you are interested in upskilling in advanced digital skills and looking for help in this path – do not hesitate and contact us. Maybe in collaboration, we will be able to find the best upskilling path for you.