THE OPERATION OF INDUSTRY LIAISON OFFICES AT THE UNIVERSITIES IN CYPRUS. THE CASE OF THE OPEN UNIVERSITY OF CYPRUS.

Abstract

A growing demand for measures towards smart, sustainable and inclusive growth has stemmed from a continuous challenging of the social and economic European environment. As a result, Research and Innovation have emerged as the key factor of prosperity and sustainability. The development of a benign environment would secure the prosperity of businesses (large and small- medium) and therefore, would increase the likelihood of the sustainable growth in Europe and in member- states. The increasing importance of Research and Innovation has added a new dimension to a university’s role in society. An important component of this dimension is the interactive and collaborative relationship between academia and industry. In March 2012, the Open University of Cyprus has inaugurated a University- industry Liaison Office along with five other universities in Cyprus, supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) and the EU. This initiative aims to facilitate innovation in business and academic environment by promoting effective collaboration between the University and research, business, government and civil society entities in Cyprus. Some of the areas that would be embraced during this process are technology transfer, applied research and synergy building.