Oracle Academy was proud to participate in SymOrg 2026, one of the leading international conferences in organizational sciences and management in Southeast Europe. Hosted by the Faculty of Organizational Sciences (FON), University of Belgrade, Serbia, the conference brought together academics, business leaders, and technology experts to explore the future of organizations in an increasingly dynamic and technology-driven world.
As part of the conference program, Oracle Academy participated in the International Forum of Organizational Sciences panel discussion, titled “Unlocking Regional Potential Through Academia – Industry Collaboration.” The forum focused on how universities and industry can work together to develop future-ready talent, foster innovation, and strengthen regional competitiveness.
The panel was moderated by Professor Marko Mihić, Dean of the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Belgrade, and featured distinguished academic and industry leaders, including Professor Martina Tomičić Furjan, Dean of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics (FOI); University of Zagreb, Professor Polona Šprajc, Dean of the Faculty of Organizational Sciences (FOV), University of Maribor; Ljiljana Krkić, Oracle Academy Program Manager; and Aleksandar Đorđević, Development Director of MK Group, one of Oracle’s customers in the region.
The discussion addressed evolving skills required in the digital economy, the growing role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in higher education, and the importance of creating stronger connections between academia and industry. Panelists shared experiences and practical examples of how collaboration can help students gain relevant knowledge and skills while supporting organizations in addressing workforce and innovation challenges.
Both technology and human skills required
An important theme that emerged throughout the discussion was that preparing students for future careers requires much more than technical knowledge alone. While strong expertise in technology and digital skills remains essential, panelists emphasized the growing importance of organizational, communication, and leadership competencies. They identified critical thinking, problem-solving, the ability to question and challenge assumptions, intellectual curiosity, adaptability, teamwork, and effective communication as key attributes that enable graduates to thrive in rapidly changing environments. The panel highlighted that the most successful professionals of the future will be those who can combine technical excellence with the human and organizational skills needed to lead, collaborate, innovate, and create meaningful impact.
Collaborations across region help develop future innovators and leaders
For Oracle Academy, the panel offered an opportunity to highlight the importance of long-term collaborations with educational institutions across the region. Notably, all three academic institutions represented by the deans participating in the discussion are active Oracle Academy members and are engaged in ongoing collaborative initiatives. This shared commitment demonstrates how sustained cooperation between universities and technology providers can create meaningful opportunities for students, educators, and employers alike.
Collectively, these institutions educate tens of thousands of students across Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, illustrating the regional scale and impact that can be achieved through effective academia–industry collaboration. Their participation underscored a shared vision of preparing graduates not only with strong academic foundations, but also with the practical skills and experiences required in today’s rapidly changing workforce.
The participation of MK Group further enriched the discussion by bringing an industry perspective on talent development and the competencies organizations increasingly seek in graduates entering the workforce. Together, the academic and business viewpoints reinforced a common message: preparing the next generation of professionals requires close collaboration between education and industry.
Event strengthens ideas and relationships
SymOrg 2026 provided an excellent platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and strengthening relationships across the regional academic and business communities. Oracle Academy is honored to have contributed to this important conversation and remains committed to supporting institutions that are preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving digital world.
We thank the organizers of SymOrg 2026 and all participants of the International Forum of Organizational Sciences for a highly engaging and insightful discussion. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with universities and industry partners throughout the region.
More details in a news shared by the SymOrg organizer, FON, University of Belgrade: https://en.fon.bg.ac.rs/international-forum-of-organizational-sciences-opens-symorg-2026-unlocking-regional-potential-through-academia-industry-collaboration/ as well as on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/symorg_symorg2026-symorg2026-ugcPost-7470526279725764609-uysX/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAAgwL4BGZARpXoqG4M_3HA4I-9OJZXAGNQ
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