TECHimpulse – Sustainable Innovation

KIT

How can research be effectively anchored in practice? And how can companies and universities develop sustainable solutions that create real social value? These questions were the focus of the latest edition of TECHimpulse. In a lively discussion with international experts, the spotlight was on the power of partnerships between science and industry as key drivers of sustainable transformation.

The event took place as part of the International Days at KIT in cooperation with EPICUR and is part of the TECH4Transition program, which is being implemented by KIT in collaboration with GIZ. In the digital roundtable, four international experts shared their experiences at the interface between research and practice:

  • Dr. Rime Bahij, University of Southern Denmark, conducts research on the utilization of natural raw materials for pharmaceuticals, food, and waste management.
  • Nikos Katsiadakis, Thess INTEC Technology Park, has 25 years of experience in technology transfer and EU research funding.
  • Jude Adejuwon, CcHUB Namibia, develops innovation ecosystems with a focus on university collaborations in Africa.
  • Dr. Carmen Kempka, WIBU-SYSTEMS AG, combines research in cryptography with experience in IT security.

Why cooperation matters

Right from the start, it was clear that only through close cooperation between science and industry can research findings be quickly and effectively translated into marketable innovations. Cooperation not only helps with technology transfer, but also helps to better understand each other's needs – a key step on the path to sustainable impact.

Success models and hurdles

Successful examples show that joint innovation projects benefit both sides. Several speakers emphasized the need to make such case studies more visible in order to promote acceptance of cooperation. Technology platforms can enable targeted interaction between research and industry.

At the same time, challenges remain: different objectives and timeframes often make cooperation difficult. Katsiadakis summed it up: “Ultimately, it is people and teams that work together – not institutions.” Adejuwon added that universities should cooperate more closely with growth-oriented start-ups in order to translate research results into applications.

Global perspectives & sustainability

One highlight was the international perspective: Adejuwon emphasized that different conditions apply in African countries – political incentives such as matching funds or tax breaks could promote cooperation. Bahij pointed out the special transformative value of cities, as they are where many sustainability issues converge.

Kempka emphasized that sustainable solutions can only emerge through interdisciplinary exchange. Perspectives from security, the market, and the environment should be given equal weight in development processes. The appeal was: “Think globally, act locally.”

Science that works

The event concluded with a joint plea: Science should not only provide insights, but also have an impact on society – economically, ecologically, and socially. Or as Jude Adejuwon put it: “Science is not an end in itself. It must contribute to sustainable development.”

TECHimpulse has once again demonstrated how valuable – and challenging – the dialogue between science and industry is. We would like to thank all the speakers, as well as GIZ and EPICUR, for their support in this important event.