As the world rapidly undergoes digital transformation, Bosnia and Herzegovina is still trying to find its direction, according to AI advisor and PhD candidate Ajla Karajko. In an interview with Bloomberg Adria, Karajko emphasizes that artificial intelligence (AI) represents an opportunity for BiH similar to what the internet and mobile technologies once were – a chance to catch up with the world or fall even further behind if we remain passive.

AI in BiH: Enthusiasm Without a System

She describes the current situation as a fragmented network of individuals and startups, with no clear institutional strategy. Although there is knowledge and potential, coordination, legal frameworks, and political will are lacking. AI exists among individuals, not within a system that could accelerate it.

Real Opportunities: Smart Factories, Personalized Education, and Healthcare

Karajko points out numerous AI applications – from smart factories that predict malfunctions to personalized education and early disease detection in healthcare. She stresses that BiH has the capabilities, but without systematic integration, AI remains a privilege for those who manage on their own.

Three Key Steps for the Business Community

To unlock AI’s potential, Karajko recommends:

• Educating business leaders about AI’s possibilities (not technically, but strategically).
• Partnering with AI experts, startups, and universities through small pilot projects.
• Shifting the mindset to see AI as an investment in competitiveness, not an expense.

The Risks Are Real – But Passivity Is the Greatest Danger

Ajla acknowledges that fear of AI is understandable, especially in serious matters like employment or credit decisions. However, the greater danger arises when fear turns into inaction. If we leave AI to chance without ethical oversight, we miss the opportunity for true societal progress.

The Time to Act Is Now

Ajla Karajko clearly states that BiH urgently needs to adopt strategic documents, build technical infrastructure, train public officials, and most importantly, secure political will. AI must not remain an exclusive topic for “geeks,” but rather a national social priority.

Read the full interview with Ajla Karajko here.