Page 157 - Izobraževanje v dobi generativne umetne inteligence

Generative AI and the Croatian Educational System

To sustain momentum in building digital skills across the population, the
strategy includes several supportive measures:

1. Promoting Lifelong Education in ICT - expanding access to formal and
informal education programs that enhance digital skills at all life stag-
es.
2. Reducing Administrative and Tax Barriers - creating incentives to at-
tract and retain foreign ICT professionals to strengthen the workforce.
3. Establishing Specialized Programs for ICT-Interested Students - devel-
oping tailored programs for students passionate about ICT topics to
foster early engagement and expertise.

The Digital Croatia Strategy 2032 positions education as a cornerstone of
the nation’s digital future. By embedding digital competencies into curricula,
fostering ICT innovation, and investing in educators and infrastructure, Croa-
tia aims to create an inclusive and forward-looking education system. These
initiatives ensure not only workforce readiness but also broader societal ad-
aptation to the demands of an increasingly digitalised world.
The Digital Croatia Strategy serves as a foundational framework for The
National Plan for the Development of the Education System for the Period
Until 2027 that outlines Croatia’s strategic priorities for integrating advanced
technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), into its educational frame-
work (European Commission, 2024). Recognising AI as a pivotal element in
transforming education, the plan emphasises both the opportunities and
challenges associated with the adoption of AI and generative AI (GEN-AI) in
schools. The document underscores the need for a systematic approach to
aligning the education system with technological advancements while fos-
tering equitable access and inclusivity.
To address the growing demand for highly qualified professionals in sci-
ence and technology, the plan places special emphasis on reforming second-
ary education, particularly gymnasium curricula. This reform aims to prepare
students for continued education and equip them with foundational knowl-
edge in critical scientific domains, including AI, which is highlighted as essen-
tial for Croatia’s and the European Union’s future development. AI education
is envisioned as a means to enhance innovation, workforce readiness, and
societal transformation while promoting an understanding of its risks, such
as bias, discrimination, and misuse.
The strategic framework identifies four primary areas and two horizontal
themes for digital transformation:

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