Focus on Higher Education

Research and Development in Higher Education

After the Second World War, there was a favourable political climate and public funding support for research. Developed countries, notably the USA, considered research to be of critical importance for development, and universities were relied upon for carrying out research and development (R&D) activities. The Sputnik effect introduced competition in scientific research. Policy support and public funding were forthcoming for R&D activities.

The knowledge divide between developed and developing countries is deeply entrenched. Developing countries lack both financial and human resources, and are poorly placed with regard to R&D activities. They need to improve their capacity to produce knowledge domestically as well as absorb knowledge produced elsewhere. In order to carry out research and to improve research capacities, the university system needs to be strengthened through expanding graduate and doctoral study programmes.

Knowledge is a crucial element for promoting economic growth and competitiveness. The future growth potential of the knowledge economy depends on its capacity to produce knowledge, and therefore, there is a greater value and stronger emphasis on R&D activities. Investing in knowledge production produces economic rewards and the corporate sector is also eager to invest in R&D activities.

Private sector funding usually takes the form of project-based applied research activities in contrast to the emphasis by public agencies on basic research. The private sector has developed its own research facilities, although at times it commissions universities to undertake research. Many universities are eager to develop links with the industrial and production sectors, which increases the relevance and applicability of their research, facilitates technology transfer, and contributes to national innovation systems. In the context of declining public funding support, such links are also seen as a potential avenue for income generation for universities.

List of IIEP papers/publications on Research and Development in Higher Education >>

Themes of Focus on Higher Education >>

Forthcoming international events:

• The World Conference on Higher Education
  5-8 July, UNESCO, Paris.
• IIEP Policy Forum "Tertiary Education in Small States"
  2 and 3 July 2009, IIEP, Paris.

Related links:

• Publications available on this theme in IIEP's Documentation Centre Database (EPIDOC) >>
• IIEP Publications on Higher Education
• National Education Plans on higher education - Planipolis