Yesterday, a keynote lecture by Aleš Veršič, an internationally recognized expert in digital governance and open data, was held at the Montenegro Science and Technology Park. The lecture also served as an introduction to the Open Data Challenge Hackathon – Unlock Montenegro’s Data, organized by the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro, the Ministry of Public Administration of the Government of Montenegro, and the Montenegro Science and Technology Park, with the support of the Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA).

The participants were welcomed by Radivoje Drobnjak, Program Activities Manager at the STP, while the lecture was delivered by Veršič. He emphasized the importance of data in modern society, likening it to essential resources such as water, sunlight, and air. He particularly highlighted the significance of data availability and reliability in the public sector, pointing out that sectoral policies – from tourism and healthcare to industry – function through continuous information exchange and effective networking.

In his presentation, Veršič emphasized the connection between data and artificial intelligence in the modern era, highlighting that the opening and sharing of data are key steps in breaking down barriers and accelerating the digitalization of public administration.

The lecture officially marked the opening of the Open Data Challenge Hackathon – Unlock Montenegro’s Data, which brings together teams from various sectors with the aim of demonstrating, through innovative solutions, how open data can improve the functioning of public administration and society as a whole.