Igniting ideas in Germany with a high-tech strategy
'In the land of ideas, ideas must also ignite,' said Germany's Minister for Education and Research, Annette Schavan, as she presented the country's 'High-tech Strategy' on 30 August. Ms Schavan is making 'ignite ideas' the slogan of the strategy, which comprises the development of a single, national plan, 'with which Germany should reach a leading position in European and worldwide future markets', according to the minister. Between now and 2009, the government will invest some €14.6 billion in high-tech. 'All policy areas in research and development will be directed towards this goal. We are creating the framework conditions for more freedom, risk-taking and technology transfer. In the 'Land of Ideas', ideas must also ignite, top achievements in research have to become products quickly,' said Ms Schavan. A successful high-tech strategy is the only way to ensure prosperity in Germany, and will, according to the minister, create up to 1.5 million new jobs. The strategy addresses five areas: strong cooperation between science and business; an increased involvement in innovation in the private sector; the dissemination of leading technologies; the internationalisation of research and development (R&D); and funding for talented individuals. 'We want to support talent and ability in all areas, from the natural and technical sciences, to the social sciences, and above all in young people,' said Ms Schavan. In addition, 17 innovative fields will be targeted. They will include health research, optical technologies, environmental technologies, information and communication technologies (ICT), aeronautics, transport, nanotechnology and biotechnology. The minister highlighted the significance of the federal government's investment, but called on other parties to match these efforts. 'These investments represent an enormous push. Through them, we are coming a big step closer to the goal of increasing the proportion of GDP spent on R&D to three per cent. The federal government is doing its bit, now it's the turn of the Länder [states] and industry,' said Ms Schavan.
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