Rector of Tallinn University of Technology, Tiit Land, has called for Estonian universities to join forces in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration. The aim is to create an inter-university AI consortium to ensure a unified approach and ethical implementation of artificial intelligence across all Estonian higher education institutions. Achieving this requires tools, computing power, experience sharing, and a clear legal framework.
“It is time for universities to work together to establish a solid framework for both students and faculty, ensuring the smart and responsible use of AI throughout the academic system,” said Tiit Land. The consortium would also enable universities to conduct more meaningful negotiations with global technology companies to bring the best tools and practices to higher education.
“Artificial intelligence is here to stay,” confirmed Gert Jervan, Dean of the School of Information Technologies at TalTech. According to Jervan, TalTech has long-standing experience in the field—AI has been a focus at the university for decades. To amplify activities, a specialized center of excellence has been established to pool expertise. “Our goal is for artificial intelligence to be used horizontally throughout the university—from teaching and research to administrative activities,” said Jervan. “We do this wisely, based on science, and ethically.”
Currently, three universities (TalTech, University of Tartu, Tallinn University) have consolidated their initial requests regarding OpenAI EDU, and solutions are being sought within the framework of the AI Leap framework agreement. Through the planned consortium, this collaboration could be further expanded and deepened, enabling both the rapid dissemination of best practices and cost savings. It is also important to develop Estonia’s own computing capacity in cooperation with the Estonian Scientific Computing Infrastructure, taking into account not only scientific but also educational needs.