Study: Universities Not Filling Needs of Businesses
A study commissioned by the Ministry of Finance revealed that there is a wide gap between the work done at university research and development centers and the needs of the nation's businesses.
Few universities develop practical skills, especially in the field of material technology, and many companies have a low capacity for research, according to the findings.
The results of the study reflect the real situation, said Sven Lange, head of development at the plastic package manufacturing company Estiko Plastar. "The gap between the needs of the private sector and the academic capability is significant in Estonia," he said, adding that reducing this split is key to elevating the country to the group of nations with highly productive economies.
Tartu University professor Alvo Aabloo furthered the point, saying that the evaluation criteria for work by local researchers and academics do not support the needs of the country's businesses.
Ingrid Teesalu