The Faculty of Economics hosted American students. They discussed the impact of AI on companies and

Czech and American students at UWB focused on the impact of technology, especially artificial intelligence, on companies and institutions. The joint program offered professional excursions, academic lectures, and cultural experiences. The Czechs will return the visit to the Americans in early April.

For almost three decades, the Faculty of Economics of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen (FEK UWB) and the College of Business Administration of Marquette University in Milwaukee, USA, have been linked by an inter-university partnership. This year, a group of Czech and American students joined the joint course, working on case studies with the unifying theme of The Influence of Technologies (especially AI) on Companies and other Entities.

The American students spent time in the Czech Republic from March 8 to 16, and the local program offered them a combination of academic activities, excursions to companies, cultural exploration, and experiences. The week-long stay in the Czech Republic was kicked off by an escape game with artificial intelligence Destinisco directed by FEK UWB, which involved the participants in interactive cooperation. An essential part of the program was also a lecture by economist Tomáš Sedláček on the impact of AI on society and the labour market. This was followed by professional excursions to companies such as Škoda Digital, Konplan, PMDP and DNAI, where students gained insight into technological innovations and the functioning of companies. There was also a visit to the Techmania Science Center and TechTower.

Culture also came into play. The students explored places in Pilsen, Karlovy Vary, and Prague together, where they enjoyed historic corners and czech gastronomy.

“Collaborating with American colleagues was a great experience full of inspiring discussions and new ideas. The project taught me a lot and brought many unforgettable moments. I am already looking forward to the final meeting in Wisconsin, which will conclude the entire project,” said Jiří from FEK about the visit of the American students. His classmate Veronika added: “The semester course with American students was an incredibly enriching experience. In addition to working together on projects and excursions, we had a lot of fun. Above all, I was impressed by how much American students love our historic buildings, and I was also surprised by the American way of playing beer pong.”

The Czech students will complete the second part of the joint course at Marquette University in early April when they will immerse themselves in American university life, visit local companies, develop joint projects and experience the culture of Wisconsin.