Academia-industry innovation interaction: paradigm shifts and avenues for the future

摘要

Innovation is the application of an idea/invention, technology or process to a product/service that will satisfy aspecific need and can be replicated at economical cost. Innovation creates value, playing a vital role in growth andsocial well-being. Mounting economic pressure, environmental challenges, diminishing resources, the exponentiallyaccelerating pace of science and knowledge development, open innovation proliferation call for a deep assessmentof academia-industry relationships. Fundamental research as the sole thrust of academia is no longer a sustainableapproach. Instead, innovation must focus on the integration of fundamental and applied research, technologydevelopment, new business models and processes, and enhanced social responsibility. Innovation novel blueprintmandates paradigm shifts in mindsets, strategy, research focus, academia-industry relationships, IP policies andgovernment involvement. Key elements include: academia's participation in industrial development teams andtechnology networks, enhanced support for fundamental and applied research, advanced thesis research conducted inthe industry, creation of joint-value programs and resource-sharing, new business models, and enhanced societalresponsibility. Academia should also promote the participation of industry representatives in their teaching staff andadvisory boards. Special emphasis should be placed on institutionalizing innovation and on the role of small andmedium enterprises, promoting their transformation into effective catalysts of change. EU authorities, academia andthe food industry should collectively develop a mutual vision for reforming the "old push" curriculum into a "pull"ecosystem that attracts all shareholders, enabling academia and industry to build trust-based relationships, promotingperformance improvements in teaching, learning and entrepreneurship, and increasing social responsibility.Attracting venture capital to drive innovation, incubators and start-ups is also vital. Without compromising on thehighest standards, adaptation and taking up these challenges is a necessity. Time is precious and it is our utmostresponsibility to provide leadership, instill confidence, encourage and embark upon this journey to galvanize effortsand institutionalize innovation.