On 8 October 2026, the DIGIFABS project was presented at the 2nd ECT Forum, held at the University of Nicosia, Cyprus. The event provided an opportunity to introduce the project’s objectives and activities to a wider audience from academia, industry and the innovation sector.
The ECT Forum, organised by the European Centre for Emerging Competencies and Technologies (ECECT), a DIGIFABS project partner, is an initiative that brings together researchers, academics, industry professionals, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge, share experiences and discuss technological developments and their impact on education, business and society.
This year’s Forum focused on digital transformation and the need for individuals, businesses and educational institutions to adapt in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through presentations and panel discussions, speakers explored emerging technologies, innovation, entrepreneurship, changing skills requirements and the opportunities and challenges associated with the increasing adoption of AI across different sectors.
The event attracted more than 100 participants, including representatives from academia and industry from Cyprus, Germany and Estonia, as well as university students. The programme featured panel discussions with experts from both academic and industrial backgrounds, encouraging the exchange of perspectives on how emerging technologies are reshaping education, employment and business practices.
During ECECT’s presentation, DIGIFABS was highlighted as a practical example of connecting higher education with industry needs, particularly in addressing the digital transformation challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Food and Beverage sector.
The presentation emphasised how DIGIFABS brings together students, educators and SMEs through practical learning activities based on real business challenges. Students develop relevant digital, innovation and problem-solving skills, educators incorporate industry perspectives into their teaching, and SMEs contribute their needs and experience to the learning process.
The project’s approach was particularly relevant to the Forum’s discussions on adapting to technological change, as it demonstrates how collaboration between academia and industry can help prepare future professionals and businesses for digital transformation.
