Creating a “Romania 4.0” would be a significant and comprehensive undertaking, incorporating advancements in technology and digital infrastructure, as well as policy changes and shifts in education. It would fundamentally reshape the country to be future-ready. Here’s a general plan to create a Romania 4.0:

Digital Infrastructure: Start by upgrading the digital infrastructure across the country. This should include high-speed, reliable internet connections available in all areas, both urban and rural. The 5G network should be expanded to support the internet of things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and other emerging technologies.

Education and Skill Development: In the era of 4.0, the most valuable resource is human intellect and creativity. Romania should emphasize digital skills in education from an early age, and develop vocational training programs for older workers who need to retrain. University courses should be designed to equip students with the skills needed for Industry 4.0, such as data science, AI, and machine learning. Collaboration between universities and industries can help to ensure that the training is relevant and that there are jobs waiting for graduates.

Smart Cities: Cities should be equipped with IoT sensors and intelligent systems to improve the efficiency of services like traffic management, waste management, energy use, and public safety. Citizens should be able to interact with city services through digital platforms. This would not only improve the quality of life for residents, but also make Romanian cities more attractive to foreign businesses and tourists.

Support for Digital Businesses: The government should support startups and SMEs that are involved in digital industries. This could be through tax incentives, grants, or support for research and development. It would also be beneficial to create a regulatory environment that encourages innovation, such as regulatory sandboxes where new technologies can be tested.