As part of the 17th International Scientific Conference Contemporary Theory and Practice in Construction (STEPGRAD 2026), held in Banja Luka on 4–5 June 2026, a panel discussion entitled “Smart Public Procurement for the Digital Transformation of Engineering” was successfully organized on 5 June 2026.
STEPGRAD 2026 brought together more than 170 researchers, industry representatives, policymakers, and other stakeholders, providing an important forum for the exchange of knowledge, research findings, and practical experiences related to contemporary challenges and emerging opportunities in the construction sector.
The event served as a platform for dialogue among representatives of academia, industry, professional associations, and public institutions on the role of public procurement in fostering innovation, sustainability, and the digital transformation of engineering and construction practices.
The panel featured the following distinguished speakers:
- Prof. Dr. Saša Čvoro, Full Professor, Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy, University of Banja Luka
- Nebojša Prostran, President of the Chamber of Engineers of the Republic of Srpska
- Saša Radosavljević, Representative of the Chamber of Engineers of the Republic of Srpska – Geodesy Sector
- Slobodanka Starčević, Industry Representative
- Igor Pandžić, Representative of the Chamber of Commerce of Banja Luka
The discussion focused on key aspects of the ongoing transformation of the construction sector, including the integration of digital technologies, the development of digital and green competencies, the promotion of sustainable construction practices, and the importance of public procurement mechanisms in supporting innovation and modernization.
Particular emphasis was placed on the need to strengthen collaboration among higher education institutions, industry, professional organizations, and public authorities in order to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions and enhance the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the built environment.
The event was organized within the framework of the Erasmus+ project “Boosting Digital and Green Skills for a Resilient and Sustainable Western Balkan Society (SKILL2SUSTAIN)”, which aims to strengthen institutional capacities and develop the digital and green competencies required to address future challenges in the construction sector and contribute to sustainable societal development across the Western Balkans.
