Europe needs more and stronger involvement of the universities of applied sciences (UAS) in applied research and innovation. This conclusion is unavoidable if we look at the European objectives in the area of innovation and growth. The impact of the European challenge-based approach to research must be increased. The potential impact of UAS at the European level has not been fully utilised. In this position paper we will argue that Europe as a whole will benefit from realising this potential further and by focusing on the role of UAS as connectors, that is, connectors linking citizens, companies (especially SMEs) and public institutions. This will lead to greater participation and a more active contribution of the UAS to European research and innovation, Horizon 2020 and its successors.
Increasing the impact of applied research and innovation is the way forward to
enhancing Europe’s competitiveness and its ability to create more growth and
jobs. European Universities of Applied Sciences play an important regional role
in delivering applied research and innovation, on the one hand, and act as an important
link between SMEs and industry, traditional universities, societal organisations,
and VET and other educational institutions in the region, on the other hand.
The aim of this position paper is to highlight the various roles of the UAS and their
value to Europe:
UAS4EUROPE Smart Partnerships for Regional Impact