Dr Merve Ayyüce Kizrak, AI Specialist, Digital Transformation Office (DTO) of the Presidency of Turkey

1. How do you use technology/policy to improve citizens’ lives? Tell us about your role or organisation. 

As an AI Specialist at the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye's Digital Transformation Office, I aim to build a strong bridge between data-driven technologies and citizen-focused policies. I approach technology as a tool and a driving force for solving social problems and improving citizens' lives. 

Being part of the core team that developed Türkiye's National AI Strategy allowed me to transform my academic and industrial experiences into policies and strategies. Our strategy's basis lies in AI's ethical, transparent, and sustainable use. 

One of my most significant undertakings, the Public Data Space Project, stands out for its unique approach. It facilitates secure, transparent, and reusable data sharing among public institutions, particularly in critical sectors like health, education, and the economy. 

 This project is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding data sovereignty while enhancing public services. Observing the impact of data-driven innovations that make citizens' daily lives easier makes this project unique. 

My leadership approach is based on bringing together different perspectives and developing solutions around a shared vision. Technology is a solution tool and a partnership platform that connects people and institutions. 

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2. What was the most impactful project you worked on this year? 

One of the most impressive projects of 2024 was the "The Role of Government as Provider of Data for AI" initiative.  

This work, which stands out as an international extension of the Public Data Space Project I led in Türkiye, is turning Türkiye into a global model in data sharing and AI integration. The project, led by GPAI, Oxford Insights, and CEIMIA, brought a new dimension to international cooperation in AI. 

Taking a naturally leading position in this project involved developing technical solutions and actively participating in establishing international standards.  

We prioritised establishing trust within the project's scope by taking an ethical data-sharing approach. This was a critical step that ensured technological innovation and building trust on a global scale. 

The transformative project's success can be attributed to its inclusive, scalable, and long-term vision.  

This strategic approach, which will shape public services today and, in the future, effectively demonstrates the power of technology when used with empathy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical frameworks. I am proud to have been part of this project and contributed to its success. 

3. What was one unexpected learning from 2024? 

The year 2024 made me realize that technology is not just a tool but also a catalyst that strengthens social bonds. Empathy, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical frameworks were the main factors that increased the impact of my projects.  

I learned that building trust between individuals and institutions in data-sharing projects is as critical as the success of the technical infrastructure. This trust strengthens the collaboration between teams and institutions and reinforces citizens' faith in technological solutions. 

Through experience, I realised how generative AI tools can revolutionize problem-solving and creative processes. Furthermore, exploring and deepening the relationship between AI and brain science, connectivity, and environmental sustainability shed light on the topics I will focus on in the coming years. 

4. What’s a tool or technique you’re excited to explore in 2025? 

In 2025, I aim to develop new tools and methods in AI safety and alignment. I argue that improving the interpretability of AI models will make them more reliable and accessible to citizens. 

I also look forward to working on innovative technologies such as quantum computing and biocomputing in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.  

Today's AI systems seriously burden the environment with their high energy consumption. However, these technologies can reduce energy consumption and lay the foundation for environmentally friendly AI systems by minimising carbon footprint. 

Biocomputers, on the other hand, provide systems inspired by nature's own functioning. These technologies have the potential to develop more energy-efficient and environmentally compatible solutions.

The adoption of such technologies in the public sector can not only develop more effective solutions but also start an environmental revolution.  

My vision for 2025 is based on transforming technology into a force that meets the needs of people and our planet. 

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5. Everybody’s talking about AI today – give us your hot take on AI and what it means for the public sector.

AI is not just a technology for the public sector but a strategic tool with the potential to shape future societies.  

The importance of international collaborations in this area is increasing daily. Unless globally compatible policies and standards are created, the inclusiveness and justice promised by artificial intelligence may not be achieved. 

Therefore, it is necessary to see AI as a business partner that offers innovative solutions to social problems.  

The purpose of AI for the public sector is not only to apply technology, but also to implement a total transformation that focuses on people and justice. We all need to be a part of this global effort. 

6. What are your priorities for 2025? 

It has become a personal mission of mine to ensure that female leaders are more visible in the technology and AI space. This mission was born out of my career witnessing that women's technological interests were often not supported enough.  

Early in my career, encountering a small number of women in technical fields motivated me to make a difference. In the following years, I experienced firsthand that having women in leadership positions, not just supporting roles, in projects produces more inclusive and sustainable solutions. 

Therefore, I believe women should be included in projects and allowed to lead. In 2025, I aim to bring this vision to life by leading transformative projects in both technological and social terms and to inspire future women leaders.  

I envision a world where women are given the opportunities where they can realise their potential – and I am working to make this dream come true. 

7. What advice do you have for public sector innovators? 

Based on my experience, I can say that a people—and environment-oriented approach is at the heart of innovation. Technology only finds its true meaning when it meets people's needs, supports environmental sustainability, and improves lives.  

Especially in AI projects, listening to citizens' feedback and designing solutions together with them ensures that projects are not only inclusive and accessible but also have long-term accountability. 

Powerful technologies such as AI can become a transformative force that increases social benefit when used by ethical values.  

That is why I believe innovators should focus on creating solutions that make technology accessible and beneficial for everyone by forming teams based on diversity and inclusivity. No matter how advanced technology is, people still make a real difference. 

8. Who inspires you today? 

Those who inspire me today are individuals who carry humanity's collective knowledge from the past to the present with an innovative vision of the future.  

Women, especially those who lead in AI and technology, embrace diversity and inclusivity as values ​​when producing solutions, revealing humanity's collective potential. Their understanding of leadership reflects individual success, and a value system created together. 

Young people's open-minded approaches and original thoughts increase our potential to create new connections and solutions by taking technology beyond its current use areas. This reminds me that technology can be used to develop both individual and universal benefits. 

All these sources of inspiration make me see technology as a connection rather than a tool and continue to work to build a more inclusive future. 

Dr Kizrak is also representing the Republic of Türkiye in the OECD AI Governance Working Group. 

To read our past coverage of Digital Transformation Office of the Presidency of Turkey, click here.