Universities New Zealand – Te Pōkai Tara welcomes the
first report of the Science System Advisory Group. This is
the first major review of our Science, Innovation, and
Research system in more than thirty years.
We agree
that an effective Science, Innovation, and Technology system
is key to a productive economy and that universities sit at
the heart of that.
“The university system is a major
player in New Zealand’s science, innovation and technology
system, home to approximately 50% of all New Zealand’s
researchers,” says Professor Grant Edwards, Chair of
Universities NZ and Vice-Chancellor of Lincoln
University.
“We look forward to continuing our
contribution to New Zealand’s economic reform through the
substantial impact of our university research and
graduates.”
“Universities have long
advocated for an advisory group (Briefing
to the Incoming Science and Innovation and Technology
Minister, SSAG
submission, Te
Ara Paerangi submission) to provide stewardship. The
proposed Prime Minister’s Science, Technology and
Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC) and the National
Research Council both seem key to a more strategic and
prioritised investment approach that will unlock long term
value. We see the appointment of the members of this group
as being critical to its
success.”
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“Although there is a lot of
detail to work through and much to unpick as this
progresses,” says Universities NZ Chief Executive Chris
Whelan, “there is a lot that we agree with and
support.”
“We do however see some potential risks
around the proposed Higher Education Council to oversee the
strategic direction of universities. We have a small
university system and our Vice-Chancellors already work
closely together with key ministers and agencies on
strategic priorities. On the information provided to date it
is unclear how another body would complement existing
arrangements and deliver better value.”
“We echo
the views of the Chairs of the Crown Research Institutes
(CRIs) in welcoming the recommended changes for that sector.
The proposed changes will better position CRIs for meeting
the long-term research needs of this country and will
strengthen opportunities for research collaboration and
coordination with the university
sector.”
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