PM calls for smart and responsible integration of modern technologies into society and education

RIGA - Modern technologies must be integrated wisely and responsibly into society and the education system, because it is the quality and accessibility of education that will determine how productive the Latvian economy will be and how sustainable its democracy will be, Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) said at the opening of the education innovation forum LU-EDU-2026 at the University of Latvia on Wednesday.

Silina noted that education is a long-term investment in the country and its people. "Without high-quality and accessible education, neither growth, nor a cohesive society, nor a prosperous and competitive country is possible," the prime minister said.

In her address, Silina focused in particular on young people, stressing that their skills, needs, and the world around them are changing very rapidly. "Young people expect us to be able to show direction, but we are well aware that we need to be able to balance knowledge, fast-changing technologies, and human values in a smart way," said Silina.

The prime minister also welcomed the full implementation of the new teacher pay model Program at School in Latvia in the next school year this fall. The transition to Latvian-language education has been completed, and universities are also expected to deliver results, giving them more flexibility with their programs.

Silina stressed that Latvia needs to let go of timidity and be more ambitious, because the country's most valuable asset and the key to long-term competitiveness are its people. "That is why we are the ones who must create the opportunities so that we have everything we need for today's and tomorrow's world," the prime minister said.

As reported, the University of Latvia is hosting the education innovation forum "LU-EDU-2026" on Wednesday, where scenarios for the development of the education system and a long-term vision are being discussed, LETA was told at the university.

The aim of the forum is to promote discussions on the long-term vision in education, drawing on international experience and assessing the development opportunities of the Latvian education system.