The event, promoted by the Municipality of Carregal do Sal in partnership with the Observatory of Local Authorities Association and Skilltech, was attended by institutional representatives, experts, and professionals. The main highlight was the announcement by the Government of an AI training program for Public Administration, scheduled to start in December, as part of the National Artificial Intelligence Agenda.
At the opening session, the Secretary of State for Simplification, Paulo Magro da Luz, revealed that the training program, developed in collaboration with the National Institute of Administration (INA), is expected to cover approximately 2.8 million Portuguese citizens. The official emphasized simplification, digitalization, and articulation as key pillars of the State's reform.
Throughout the two days, IA Camp addressed the practical application of AI in the public sector. DINA was presented, a digital operator developed by the Municipality of Carregal do Sal in partnership with Synertia, capable of autonomously resolving half of the queries received. The Datalink platform, from Safeminds, demonstrated how AI can support public contract management and identify pending tasks.
Izabel Azevedo, Vice-President of the Municipality of Carregal do Sal, summarized the central principle of the meeting: “technology must serve people, not replace them,” highlighting the importance of preserving the proximity of public services.
A masterclass led by Rita, from Visor AI, focused on training employees and identifying automation opportunities, encouraging technology adoption based on concrete needs.
The second day included a panel discussion on the European Artificial Intelligence Regulation (AI Act), featuring Dr. Susana Rios de Oliveira (UinLegal Partners), Professor Dr. José Silva Lopes, João Andrade (Skilltech), and Paulo Vieira (Netskope). They discussed the obligations of public entities, personal data protection, and human oversight.
João Andrade warned about the need for organizations to identify the AI systems they already use, arguing that preparation should not wait for the deadlines of the new European rules. José Silva Lopes emphasized the importance of effective knowledge of the systems for human supervision.
Participants identified five essential steps for responsible AI use: inventory, classify, regulate, train, and register, aiming to ensure control, security, and transparency.
The program also included a tasting of Dão wines featuring seven producers and the presentation of UVI, a virtual figure for accessing the municipal digital library, reinforcing the link between innovation and local identity.
Bartolomeu Noronha, from the Observatory of Local Authorities, closed the event, highlighting the importance of direct contact with professionals and the aim to continue sharing knowledge on AI use in public services.
