On March 27, 2025, WSB Merito University Szczecin and Business Club Szczecin organized a fascinating debate titled: “Challenges Facing Science and Business vs. the Modern Economy.” Among the guests were:
- Dr Maciej Kawecki – Director of the Innovation Center at WSB Merito University in Warsaw. A technology popularizer and scientific journalist appointed by the European Commission as the EU Digital Ambassador, President of the Lema Institute, Creator of the This is IT channel on YouTube, Winner of the Grand Video Awards from the PRESS Magazine.
- Marcin Kaczmarek – President of the IT Cluster and CEO of Consileon Polska.
- Michał Mariański – Director and Procurator at TIETOevry, IT Cluster.
- Prof. dr hab. inż. Przemysław Wachulak – Rector and Commander of the Military University of Technology.
- Adam Rudawski – West Pomeranian Voivode.
- Prof. dr hab. n. med. Miłosz Parczewski – Vice-Rector for Innovation and Implementation at PUM.
Ewelina Świergiel moderated the debate.
The debate addressed artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the future of work, education, and business. The participants agreed that AI’s development is radically changing how we will work. What we are witnessing today is only the beginning of this technological revolution. On one hand, it offers enormous opportunities, but on the other, it brings serious risks that we must consider.
During the debate, the experts pointed out that excessive trust in AI-generated results is a mistake. While AI has significant potential, its accuracy still has an issue. Participants highlighted that AI still makes mistakes, ranging from incomplete answers to incorrect conclusions and even “hallucinations” (system-generated false information). Research indicates that the error rate still stands at several percent, meaning that trust in AI results must be cautious and well-controlled.
The debate also focused on the changes that AI is bringing to education. Participants noted that AI is changing the requirements for what, how, and why we teach young people and current employees. In light of the impending technological revolution, the mismatch between the traditional education system and the demands of the labor market is becoming increasingly apparent.
A key point raised during the debate was the importance of educating young people for continuous development and a lifelong learning mindset. The experts emphasized that professional tools and tasks will continuously change, and the current education system does not promote a passion for learning. The participants pointed out that educating individuals who can adapt to a changing environment is essential.
In light of AI’s growing role, experts emphasized that instead of focusing on transferring vast amounts of information, the emphasis should be on developing skills to understand the rules governing the world, grasp cause-and-effect relationships, and apply this knowledge in practice. It is important to note that it is in the practical application of knowledge, not in accumulating information, where AI will not be able to surpass us anytime soon.
Another important takeaway was that as machines become better at understanding the world, building new knowledge will require humans to be ready to experiment and accept mistakes. The participants observed that the current education system, which often focuses on eliminating errors, does not encourage a creative approach to problem-solving.
The meeting also addressed the critical issue of cooperation between science and business. According to the participants’ suggestions, it is worth involving academic environments more in creating new products and services, as in other countries. Innovative ideas and the authority of scientists can significantly contribute to developing technologies that better meet real market needs. In this area, Marcin Kaczmarek, President of the IT Cluster, discussed the actions already taken by the Cluster and member companies to build cooperation between educational and scientific institutions and the business sector. He pointed out specific initiatives such as joint research and development projects, internship programs, student practices, joint industry events, and activities promoting knowledge transfer and innovation. The participants acknowledged the benefits of this cooperation for both sides and the challenges it entails, such as differences in goals and ways of functioning between universities and businesses.
The debate emphasized the crucial need to adopt a responsible approach to this technology and its potential risks. In the future, success will belong to those who can combine technology with human skills, using them responsibly and practically. AI will not replace humans but can become a powerful tool that, combined with human creativity and knowledge, will enable the achievement of new, ambitious goals.
Equally fascinating discussions took place on the sidelines of the meeting, including geopolitical issues. Most AI solutions come from American companies, increasing our dependence on Big Tech. In the context of the current international situation, the debate participants suggested that it might be worth considering the development of alternative solutions that could reduce this dependency, especially in key areas.
Additionally, the experts discussed the risk associated with the lack of proper data selection and cleansing processes for AI. It was emphasized that improper data management can lead to the exposure of confidential information and personal data and the introduction of incorrect data into AI systems, resulting in erroneous outcomes. “Garbage in, garbage out,” as the participants put it, “incorrect data generates incorrect results.”
