First KreativEU Thematic Summer School
How can Europe's rich cultural past inform the development of ethical artificial intelligence for our future? The first KreativEU Thematic Summer School brought together experts from across the alliance to explore this critical question, marking a significant milestone in Work Package 5's mission to develop AI systems rooted in European values.
- Global engagement
- Data Science & AI
- About BUas
- KreativEU
What is WP5?
BUas is a member of the KreativEU consortium, where we collaborate through eight distinct Work Packages. Work Package 5 embodies a distinctly European approach to AI development. Work Package 5 takes a distinctly European approach to AI development. Rather than treating technology as separate from culture, WP5 examines how our shared heritage and values can guide the creation of ethical, sustainable artificial intelligence. Through summer schools, hackathons, and collaborative projects, multidisciplinary teams develop practical AI solutions that address global challenges - from climate change to social inclusion - whilst safeguarding what makes Europe unique.
Building the foundation: Online preparation
The Summer School launched on 20 June with an online preparatory session, where WP5 experts explored the connections between AI, sustainability, and cultural heritage. Presentations on AI ethics, sustainable innovation, and responsible technology use established the conceptual framework for the intensive sessions ahead.
On-site collaboration at Trnava University
The heart of the programme took place at Trnava University, where participants engaged in hands-on workshops and cross-disciplinary discussions. Each day focused on a key pillar:
- Artificial Intelligence: Examining definitions, applications, and ethical considerations
- Cultural Heritage: Exploring the balance between tangible monuments and intangible traditions
- Sustainability: Reflecting on how AI can support environmental and social goals
The interactive format fostered genuine dialogue between experts from different fields, breaking down disciplinary silos and building shared understanding.
From theory to practice: Case study presentations
The programme concluded online on 24 September, following the first hackathon at Opole University of Applied Sciences. Each participating institution presented brief case studies showcasing how their work connects to WP5's goals. These presentations demonstrated the diversity of approaches across the KreativEU alliance and identified opportunities for deeper collaboration.
Looking ahead: Building Europe's ethical AI network
The Thematic Summer School represents just the beginning. In the coming months, the KreativEU expert network will continue advancing shared knowledge at the intersection of AI, sustainability, and European cultural heritage. Through this challenge-based approach, the network aims to develop at least 12 AI systems at various stages of development by 2028, each designed to reflect European values and contribute to a more connected, responsible future.
The next steps include additional hackathons, further summer schools, and the establishment of the KreativEU Smart Sustainability Think Tank, which will influence European policy-making on AI and heritage.
