Guest Lecture by Stephen Ezell
A guest lecture by Mr. Stephen Ezell, Vice President for Global Innovation Policy at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation – ITIF, was held at the Faculty of Economics, University of Banja Luka. The lecture was titled “Innovation and Digital Transformation: Drivers of Competitiveness in the Modern Economy.”
The event took place on 18 May 2026 in the Ceremonial Hall of the Faculty of Economics, organized by the Faculty of Economics, University of Banja Luka, and the E-business Laboratory – E-lab, within the Freedom250 initiative, following a proposal by the Embassy of the United States of America in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
At the beginning of the event, the participants were addressed by Ms. Dragana Tatić, Deputy Director of the Banja Luka Local Office of the U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina. She welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the Freedom250 initiative, as well as academic cooperation and knowledge exchange in the fields of innovation, technology, and contemporary economic development.
The introductory lecture was delivered by Assist. Prof. Ljubiša Mićić, PhD, Head of the E-business Laboratory – E-lab. In his introductory presentation, titled “Balkans Contributions to American Development, Science & Technology,” Assist. Prof. Mićić presented the contributions of individuals originating from the Balkans, particularly Serbian-American scientists, innovators, and cultural figures, to the development of the United States, science, technology, and innovation ecosystems. The introductory lecture was designed as a bridge between the Freedom250 initiative, historical heritage, contemporary innovation policy, and the topic of competitiveness in the digital economy.
Following the introductory part, Mr. Stephen Ezell delivered his lecture on the role of innovation, digital transformation, technological development, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing, trade, investment, and public policy in strengthening the competitiveness of modern economies. Special attention was given to how countries, universities, institutions, and business systems can develop capacities for innovation, productivity, and long-term economic growth.
The event was attended by students, professors, teaching assistants, representatives of the academic community, business sector, and professional practice, who actively participated in the discussion. Students showed strong interest in the topics of innovation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, competitiveness, and international cooperation, contributing to a dynamic and high-quality exchange through their questions and comments.
Following the lecture, the guests held a meeting with Vice Dean Prof. Dr. Dragan Gligorić, where they discussed opportunities for further cooperation, strengthening academic and professional ties, and the importance of international initiatives that provide students and faculty with access to contemporary knowledge and global experience.
The lecture represented an important opportunity to connect the academic community, students, and practitioners with an international expert in innovation policy and the digital economy. The importance of developing digital competences, understanding global technological trends, and strengthening links between universities, institutions, the business sector, and international partners was particularly emphasized.
The Faculty of Economics, University of Banja Luka, and E-lab will continue organizing guest lectures, professional meetings, and activities that connect students with relevant domestic and international experts in the fields of business informatics, digital transformation, innovation, and the modern economy.
Published 18.05.2026. у 18:32