The Estonian Presidency Research Conference “Embedding digital into societal challenges” was held at the Residence Palace in Brussels on the 7th of December. The presentations revolved around how digital technologies can address societal challenges in domains like healthcare, energy, transportation and bioeconomy.

Additionally, attendees discussed the potential of digitalization for acceleration innovation and delivering services, and the importance of learning how to use new technological tools. The conference was organized by the Estonian Research Council, the Permanent Representation of Estonia to the EU, the Ministry of Education and Research in Estonia, Science|Business and the Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe (UNICA).

Mailis Reps, Minister of Education and Research of Estonia, introduced Estonia’s approach to e-services and underlined the importance of enhancing digital skills via a video message.

Deputy Secretary General for Higher Education and Research of the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research Indrek Reimand highlighted the effects and potential impact of digital technologies in his closing remarks. “Digital progress is transforming our societies and economies to the core”, he said.