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KE Scotland Conference Heriot-Watt University Friday 23 April 2010 Laurence Howells Senior Director Skills, Research and Knowledge Exchange. Contribution of HEIs to economy. Educating students to possess relevant knowledge, skills and creativity for the economy and society
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KE Scotland ConferenceHeriot-Watt UniversityFriday 23 April 2010Laurence HowellsSenior DirectorSkills, Research and Knowledge Exchange
Contribution of HEIs to economy • Educating students to possess relevant knowledge, skills and creativity for the economy and society • Creating new knowledge, accessing existing knowledge to contribute to innovation and business growth • Providing ‘creative’ space for academic/business interactions • Attracting inward investment and people • Supporting local communities through outreach • Contributing business impacts eg employment, to their host region
What is Knowledge Exchange • “ The two way flow of people and ideas between the research environment and wider economy, thereby contributing to national prosperity, the quality of life of citizens, and cultural enrichment of our society.” • RCUK/DIUS
WEALTHIER & FAIRER • SMARTER • HEALTHIER • SAFER & STRONGER • GREENER Supportive business environment ‘focus on strengthening the link between Scotland’s research base and business innovation..’ November 2007
HEI KE activities • Commercialisation • Industrial/academic engagement • Problem solving • People exchange
How can we best enhance the impact on Scotland of HEIs KE activities? • Be clear about outcomes and mechanisms • Focus on Scottish Government priority sectors • “World problems” provide an opportunity (and a threat) • Increase collaborative projects between academia and business in Scotland, Exploit co-location opportunities • Continue to raise awareness of, identify market opportunities for Scottish research base strengths • Support training and career development for academics wishing to pursue collaborative work with business