Education, research and innovation are elements in all types and levels of HE, but different HEIs focus on different aspects of education according to their mission statements. We do see, however, a continuum between academic, professional and vocational teaching and training; and similarly we see a continuum between fundamental research, innovation and applied research.
Continually evolving societies require us to invest more in the triangle education-research-innovation, and we are convinced that higher education is a major driver not only for economic and social development, but also for innovation in an increasingly knowledge-driven world. And so we urge governments to focus on the structural development of applied research in the EHEA, to ensure that research results are translated into all levels and cycles of higher education and to recognize the contribution applied research makes to regional innovation.
Our vision for 2020 is that a greater balance has been established among the different sectors of HE between teaching and research through the instruments of innovation; that academic and professional sectors have developed the means to make use of their complementary assets; and that all higher education institutions have adopted this double mission, each in accordance with their specific mission and profile.
EURASHE commits itself to contributing actively to the transfer of research results in society through innovation and an applied-research based HE with a special focus on regional development, without neglecting the global perspective. We will cooperate closely with the world of employment, acknowledging that in a regional context, public institutions (schools & kindergartens, polyclinics, social service centres, etc.) and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are natural partners for professional HE.
These themes are explored and discussed by the Working Group on Development & Innovation (WG2), which is led by Marc Vandewalle (VLHORA) and Ronald Guillen (IUT Saint-Nazaire).
Its objectives are:
a. Represent and advocate the Professional Higher Education (PHE) sector at European level – Contribute to policy formulation at European and national levels;
b. Specify and advocate Mission and Role of Professional Higher Education and Professionally oriented Research, Development and Innovation.
Find out the composition of the Working Group 2.
