KEY TRENDS AND CHALLENGES IN HIGHER EDUCATION And INNOVATION Leo Goedegebuure ATEM, 18 April, 2018

Structure of Presentation Changing perspectives on innovation The concept of innovation ecosystems An international sample Australia and innovation ecosystems Some final thoughts

Three trends and their consequences Economic globalisation Increased competition, new providers Transition from industrial economies to knowledge-based economies Increased demand for HE, increased diversity of student body The Digital Revolution Redesign/reconceptualisation of what we do

What will change The nature of work Our education programs See reports from Foundation of Young Australians Our education programs Stronger links with the world of work, focus on transferable skills, micro credentials The structure of our system??? The role of TAFE/Vocational Education; external engagement

Source: Martin Curley, Nature, May 19, 2016 5

23 14 9 7 9 27 34 24

Key elements of innovation ecosystems A Network of Research Universities, Colleges, Local Government Authorities, Established Companies, and Start-Ups Supported by Venture Capital, Lawyers, Design Firms SHARING knowledge INTERACTING & COLLABORATING Forming COMMUNITIES To GROW and IMPROVE

Lessons learned from comparative analysis Adaptation to local context crucial Build on strengths, not concepts Important role for governments Collaboration amongst actors accelerates clustering Mature enterprises must be included in the mix Innovation ecosystems defined by process rather than industry As much a journey of discovery as a course of action Source: Engel 2015

AUSTRALIA AND INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS EXAMPLES ILLUSTRATING THE WAY FORWARD

Smart Specialisation Strategy Focus on region  relative strengths and opportunities Bottom-up (consensus) and evidence-based Region’s assets Regions challenges Competitive advantage Potential for excellence Continuous monitoring/evaluation  dynamic adjustment Share experience; interaction

Thank you for your attention