The Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology of the Slovak University of Technology (FEI STU) and Microsoft Slovakia have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to bolster the development of Artificial Intelligence in Slovakia and contribute to the creation of a robust, secure, and competitive digital ecosystem. The cooperation primarily focuses on AI, data analytics, and cloud solutions. As a global leader in AI and cybersecurity, Microsoft brings international expertise, advanced technological platforms, and direct industry links to the project. The goal of this initiative is the effective preparation of the high-level experts long required by the Slovak technology sector.
The document establishes a foundation for strategic cooperation in digital technologies, with a specific emphasis on AI—one of the faculty's core academic and research domains.
Strengthening Leadership in AI and Research
FEI STU has long been recognized as a leading educational and research institution in informatics, cybernetics, robotics, and data science. The development of AI and its practical applications is a top priority for the faculty, and this partnership further solidifies that commitment. This initiative is particularly timely given the growing shortage of AI specialists, a gap increasingly felt across the labor market.
The memorandum defines a framework for cooperation across education, research, and technology transfer, including:
- Integration of industry professionals into the teaching process.
- Support for the modernization of study programs.
- Opportunities for students to work with the latest technological platforms.
- Joint research and innovation activities.
"Artificial Intelligence is currently one of our faculty's primary technological domains. Our goal is not only to train top-tier experts but also to actively shape the future of AI through research and collaboration with industry leaders. The partnership with Microsoft allows us to bridge the gap between academia and practice even more effectively," stated Vladimír Kutiš, Dean of FEI STU.
Meeting the Demands of the Future Workforce
The partnership also addresses the rapid global shift toward AI-driven operations.
"Collaboration with the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology at STU is a vital step for us in supporting the growth of AI and digital skills in Slovakia. The Microsoft Work Trend Index 2025 confirms that AI adoption is progressing at an unprecedented pace—81% of organizations expect AI agents to play a key role in their strategies within the next 18 months. Furthermore, 78% of leaders are considering the creation of specialized roles focused on AI utilization. This creates an urgent need to strengthen the innovation ecosystem," added Michal Stachlík, General Manager of Microsoft Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Fostering a Global Innovation Ecosystem
Beyond education, the collaboration will flourish in Research and Development (R&D), facilitating team integration, the exchange of know-how, and participation in both national and international projects. A key component of the agreement remains the support of innovation, the development of prototypes, and the building of a broader, more resilient technological ecosystem.
