As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape industries and redefine the future of business, academic institutions are stepping up to equip students with the skills needed to navigate this evolving landscape. At the European School of Economics (ESE), AI in Business courses are designed not only to build technical awareness but also to foster ethical, legal, and strategic thinking.

In this exclusive interview, we speak with Maria Elena Iafolla, Professor of Business Law at ESE Milan campus and Head of the Department of Innovation and Sustainability, who shares her insights on AI, regulation, and the future of education.

From Business Law to Artificial Intelligence

A Journey at the Intersection of Law and Innovation

Professor Iafolla’s professional path reflects a longstanding interest in the intersection of legal frameworks, technological progress, and business strategy.

“As a lawyer, I have always been interested in the intersection between law, rights protection, technological innovation, and business,” she explains. “I chose early on to work with companies throughout their innovation processes.”

Her academic role goes beyond delivering theoretical knowledge. At ESE, she focuses on equipping students with the ability to make strategic decisions, using legal compliance as a guiding framework. This approach ensures that innovation remains responsible and aligned with both ethical standards and business objectives.

The Legal Challenges of Artificial Intelligence

AI as a Governance Issue

Artificial Intelligence is often perceived purely as a technological development, but from a legal standpoint, it represents a much broader governance challenge.

Key issues include responsibility for automated decisions, the need for explainability and transparency, data quality and data protection

“These elements are essential to safeguarding fundamental rights,” she notes.

The Complexity of Global Regulation

Another major challenge is the fragmentation of regulations across countries. This lack of harmonization creates difficulties for companies operating internationally, making compliance more complex and slowing cross-border innovation.

The Impact of European AI Regulation on Education

Universities as Innovation Hubs

With the introduction of new regulatory frameworks such as the AI Act, Europe is positioning itself at the forefront of responsible AI development. For educational institutions, this presents a significant opportunity.

“Universities can become genuine hubs of innovation culture,” she explains.

At ESE, this translates into developing competencies in AI governance and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, alongside supporting research across legal, ethical, and technical domains

Compliance as a Driver of Transformation

Rather than being seen as a limitation, compliance can act as a catalyst for innovation. Educational institutions have the chance to experiment with new teaching models and prepare students to operate in highly regulated environments.

Essential Skills for the Future of Business and AI

Building Interdisciplinary Expertise

According to the Professor, the professionals of tomorrow will need a combination of technical knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Fundamental competencies include digital and data literacy, understanding of regulatory frameworks, as well as strategic and analytical thinking

“Interdisciplinary agility will become a distinctive asset,” she emphasizes.

This ability to navigate across legal, managerial, and technological domains will enable future leaders to make informed decisions and drive sustainable innovation.

Advice for Students Entering the AI Field

Cultivating Depth and Breadth

For students interested in pursuing careers in Business and AI, the Professor highlights the importance of balancing specialization with interdisciplinary exploration.

“My first suggestion is to cultivate both depth and breadth,” she says.

Students should aim towards building a strong foundation in their core discipline, developing their ability to connect different fields, with the intention to understand the ethical implications of innovation.

Stay Curious and Adaptive

In a rapidly evolving field like AI, curiosity is a crucial asset. Staying informed about new technologies, regulatory developments, and emerging perspectives will allow students to remain competitive and adaptable.

“Explore new tools and actively integrate them into your intellectual journey,” she advises.

AI Education at ESE: Preparing Responsible Leaders

ESE’s AI courses are designed to go beyond technical training. By integrating law, ethics, and business strategy, they prepare students to become responsible leaders in a complex and rapidly changing world.

Through an interdisciplinary approach and a strong focus on sustainability, ESE ensures that students are not only ready to embrace innovation but also to shape it in a way that benefits society as a whole.

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