Academia for Smart City Chief Data Officers

he Erasmus+ project CDOA – Academia for Smart City Chief Data Officers develops an innovative, practice-oriented learning framework to prepare future professionals and decision-makers for the digital and green transformation of cities. Coordinated by Poznan University of Economics and Business, the project responds to the growing need for experts who can translate complex urban data into informed public policies and sustainable governance strategies. CDOA combines urban data analytics, artificial intelligence, smart city technologies, and public-sector innovation in an interdisciplinary educational approach that connects higher education institutions with municipalities, businesses, and civil society actors. The project emphasizes real-world problem solving through collaboration with cities and stakeholders, enabling students and practitioners to work on concrete urban challenges related to mobility, energy, sustainability, digital governance, and citizen engagement. By integrating systems thinking, digital competencies, and sustainability perspectives, CDOA contributes to strengthening Europe’s capacity for responsible and data-driven urban transformation. The project also promotes international cooperation and knowledge exchange between universities, public authorities, and technology partners to foster innovative and inclusive smart city ecosystems.