Why are universities a vital link in the chain from creation of knowledge to development of products?
The valuable results of research which provide advances in technology are usually the result of the curiosity of a researcher who is asking “Why is this so?” or “Where could that lead?” What makes universities unique is the fact that they provide a rich diversity bringing together multiple disciplines, with a broader focus than product-specified industries. Most importantly, universities train and nurture the next generation of scientists and engineers which will carry with them to industry the ability to link creative knowledge with product development. The university provides the environment–library, laboratory, resources, equally curious colleagues and students–to nurture the pursuit of knowledge. However, this knowledge often needs further work even to begin to determine its usefulness as a contribution to a product of service. Industry is reluctant to support research which is not directed toward immediate financial return. The university provides a proving ground on which to ta
