International Conference SMEPP 2025 Held: Artificial Intelligence as a Driver of Development

On June 3, 2025, the University of Novi Pazar hosted the SMEPP 2025 conference titled “Artificial Intelligence as a Driver of Development in Underdeveloped Regions”, organized by the Department of Economic and Computer Sciences, with support from the Academy of Applied Studies of Kosovo and Metohija and the Ministry of Science of Serbia.

Opening remarks were given by UNINP Rector Prof. Dr. Suad Bećirović, Dr. Milan Mišić, Dr. Gordana Jovanović, Dr. Boris Šiljković, and Assistant Prof. Dr. Dženis Bajramović.

Keynote speeches were delivered by:

• Prof. Dr. Ana Kovačević (University of Belgrade) – on the risks of generative AI
• Prof. Dr. Muzafer Saračević (UNINP) – on the importance of reliable data

Key conclusions:

• AI has potential in the public sector but is limited by infrastructure and data quality.
• The private sector is already using AI in analysis and automation.
• Ethics, safety, and education are essential for responsible implementation.
• AI can reduce digital inequality, given proper regulation.
• Digital finance is increasingly replacing cash-based transactions.

SMEPP 2025 confirmed that the responsible use of artificial intelligence can significantly contribute to the development of underdeveloped regions.