Fostering the knowledge triangle
Evolution and modernisation are important components of university education in Europe. Education, research and innovation - three pivotal elements - must always act in concert to help universities modernise. This concept, known as the knowledge triangle, has occupied European policy-makers in recent years. Academia in Europe has been looking to encourage modernisation in four main areas of science, namely life sciences/health, social sciences, technology/information technology (IT), and humanities/fine arts. However, it is important to keep in mind that knowledge transfer and information flow can operate quite differently across these scientific areas; there is no single formula applicable to all disciplines and all universities in all European countries. During its Council (of the European Union) Presidency, Sweden took the initiative to further the concept and realisation of the knowledge triangle, taking into account the idiosyncrasies of different disciplines and institutions. The aim was better coordination of the three knowledge triangle elements, with the impact of education entrepreneurship being a key instrument in this endeavour. 'The knowledge triangle shaping the future of Europe' (K-triangle) project, funded by the EU, was established to build a pivotal conference that would explore the issue. All the stakeholders of the three sides would be involved, offering valuable recommendations that support the implementation of the knowledge triangle. The conference, which took place in 2009, attracted a multitude of specialists with insights into European and global trends as well as different directorates within the Commission. Efforts to reach the younger generation through an open registration process and the use of many channels resulted in attracting 300 people. The conference's preparation process and the strong attendance paved the way for insightful conclusions that were subsequently utilised by the Swedish Presidency at a political level. The conference explored the commitments, resources and leadership necessary for the creation of a truly knowledge-based society. It investigated how the knowledge triangle can be the guiding principle for the development of universities and can incorporate industry and society. The conference's final report provides a detailed, interesting overview of the presentations and discussions that took place; it was sent to all participants, and displayed on the Swedish presidency website (http://www.se2009.eu/(opens in new window)) as well as on the website of the Swedish National Agency for Higher Education. If applied, the conference outcomes and recommendations have the potential to enhance the knowledge triangle to the benefit of all parties involved: industry, academia and research are all winners in this arena.