A year of new policies, strategies and initiatives to use AI in science, innovation and higher education

In 2024-2025, AI was a major topic for higher education and research institutions, as well as for European governments and the EU.

France hosted the AI Summit from 06 to 11/02/2025, gathering researchers from around the world to discuss research, applications and the future of AI.

Philippe Baptiste, French Minister for Higher Education and Research, announced the creation of a dedicated AI campus in France in partnership with the United Arab Emirates, with over €30 Bn in funding. "The data centre built there will house the most powerful computing capabilities in Europe."

In the UK, the government also announced its AI Action Plan on 13/01/2025, with a committed £14 Bn (€16.72 Bn) investment from three major tech companies to "build the AI infrastructure the UK needs to harness the potential of this technology and deliver 13,250 jobs".

Germany launched its "Hightech agenda" on 30/07/2025, with AI as one of its six key technologies. The German Minister, Dorothee Bär, announced €5.5 Bn earmarked for flagship projects as well as the research and innovation ecosystems that accompany them…