The Lipetsk region and the government-backed Sber group have formalized a new partnership focused on advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning. The agreement, announced through Sberbank’s press office, marks a deliberate step toward integrating smart technologies into regional development and public services.
The document was signed by Alexander Vedyakhin, the first deputy chairman of the Sberbank board, and Igor Artamonov, the governor of the Lipetsk region, signaling a joint commitment to explore AI-driven solutions that can benefit residents and local institutions alike.
Key aims of the collaboration include promoting research and innovation in artificial intelligence, accelerating the deployment of machine learning in state and commercial sectors, and fostering the creation of new technologies and enhanced services within Lipetsk. This effort is anticipated to strengthen the region’s tech ecosystem and attract investment in digital infrastructure.
Vedyakhin described Lipetsk as a rapidly evolving center for AI transformation, noting that the partnership builds on a broader portfolio of digital projects designed to support sustainable development and improve quality of life. The initiative reflects a shared belief that smart automation and data-driven decision making can improve public administration, economic efficiency, and everyday citizen experiences.
As part of the agreement, Lipetsk plans to open School 21 to address the shortage of highly specialized IT professionals. The program aims to cultivate local talent capable of developing advanced AI solutions for diverse industries, while expanding the pipeline of skilled workers who can contribute to regional growth. Meanwhile, the partners expect to trial machine learning models and other AI technologies across multiple sectors, with a view to scaling successful pilots. Joint events, competitions, and hackathons are also anticipated to broaden the use of artificial intelligence within government agencies and beyond.
Artamonov emphasized practical benefits already realized through AI, describing how modern video analytics are used to enhance resident safety and how intelligent systems help manage traffic flow. He highlighted voice assistants that assist residents applying for electronic documents or contacting healthcare services, noting that feedback collected through these tools is used to refine public services and make institutions more customer-oriented.
Overall, the governor suggested that the agreement is a catalyst for meaningful progress in delivering modern services and raising the standard of living across Lipetsk. The collaboration aligns with broader regional strategies to harness AI for governance, economy, and community well-being, with measurable outcomes expected as pilots mature and wider adoption follows.
In addition to technology pilots, the partnership envisions a continuing program of research, evaluation, and knowledge sharing. By bringing together government leadership, academic researchers, and industry practitioners, Lipetsk aims to build an evidence base for AI-enabled policy making and service delivery. This collaborative model seeks to balance innovation with responsible deployment, ensuring data privacy, security, and transparent governance alongside rapid technological advancement.
The overall objective remains to leverage artificial intelligence to create practical, scalable improvements for residents and businesses in Lipetsk while positioning the region as a forward-looking example of digital transformation in Russia. The cooperation underscores a shared conviction that AI can drive efficiency, stimulate innovation, and enhance everyday life when guided by thoughtful policy and strong public-private collaboration.[Source: Sberbank press service]