The Netherlands faces major societal challenges. Universities of applied sciences are contributing to the solutions through applied research. In PIT Magazine, the Taskforce for Applied Research SIA (Regieorgaan SIA), gives the floor to those who set the course. These are passionate executives who also spearhead the missions of top sectors. This time, we hear from Joep Houterman, chairman of the board of Fontys University of Applied Sciences. He answers the question of the importance of applied research in key technologies.
"Practical research directly contributes to the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It stimulates innovation, solves problems, and helps entrepreneurs seize new opportunities. Universities of applied sciences have the knowledge and expertise to conduct this research, as well as the connections with the business community. We know what's going on and what companies need.
At Fontys, for example, we're collaborating with entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector to investigate how key technologies can help make things more sustainable. How can you use AI, robots, drones, and sensors to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides and optimize cultivation? And with the manufacturing industry in Venlo, Eindhoven, and Tilburg, we're working on making products like batteries more circular. How do you make a battery that can be easily broken down into reusable components, and what does that entail? These are very practical questions, for which we're finding solutions together with companies.
In terms of volume, universities of applied sciences are a small player in their research. With the funding we have available, we can conduct a limited number of studies. So we have to make choices. And collaborate more intelligently; join forces. This Fortunately, we're constantly improving, including around key technologies. For example, in the battery project, we're collaborating with other universities of applied sciences. Five professorships from five universities of applied sciences are jointly contributing knowledge on technologies, revenue models, and supply chain collaboration. We also want to further develop applied research in the field of smart industry with these universities. This involves data analysis and process digitization.
We're also increasingly successful in engaging in relevant discussions on societal issues. This, too, is a result of joining forces. By collaborating, we not only increase our impact and visibility, but we also deploy the funds optimally. The government has pledged to make €100 million available annually for applied research over the next ten years. That's great. But if we really want to make significant progress, more money is needed."
