PAKISTAN is under severe economic stress owing to poor governance over the last decade or so. The solution to the crisis lies in progress in multiple sectors through innovations based on science as well
as technology. The strength of any technologically advanced country is based on innovative research in its universities. Land-grant universities under Morrill Act in the late 1800s during the Civil War had laid the foundation of the industrial revolution in the United States.
History also suggests that phases of economic suffering have the potential to lead nations to the path of unprecedented innovations. The transformation from economic crisis to industrial insurrection has one very strong contributory factor: ‘the pyramid of success’. The pyramid’s concept outlines a progression towards economic prosperity across three tiers: basic, applied and commercial.
At the base of the pyramid lies basic research, where researchers and scientists, fuelled by innate curiosity, meticulously investigate the intricacies of the natural world. Throughout history, there have been abundant instances of triumph resulting out of investments in basic research. Following World War II, for instance, there was a surge in funding towards basic research, catalysing breakthroughs in fields such as computing and semiconductors, thereby propelling decades of economic expansion.
This fundamental stage establishes the basis for advancement to the tier of applied research. Here, the emphasis transitions towards converting discoveries from basic research into tangible solutions that tackle the challenges in any specific surrounding. This particular phase acts as a link between theoretical, classroom knowledge and its real-world application, converting findings and innovations into viable and effective technologies by engineers, inventors and entrepreneurs. The pinnacle of the pyramid entails the entry of innovations into markets with the aim of yielding economic value. Businesses play a crucial role in translating applied research into tangible products and services. This process not only fosters economic growth by generating a lot of employment opportunities and circu- lating capital, but also enriches societal wellbeing.
The interconnectedness among the various tiers of the pyramid is vital for its effectiveness. As is logical, the concept of pyramid has a cyclic pattern in which the outcomes of commercialisation are reinvested into basic research, thereby perpetuating innovation.
It is, therefore, essential to prioritise those research domains that have the potential for significant economic influence. Encouraging interdisciplinary teamwork dismantles barriers and actually hastens the pace of innovation. Implementing efficient methods for transferring knowledge guarantees that research discoveries are accessible to enterprises and aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, establishing a conducive environment that is supported by a bunch of favourable policies, robust infrastructure and adequate access to funding is essential for transforming concepts into marketable products.
The government needs to prioritise research funding for the universities that demonstrably contribute to economic recovery through advancing the pyramid’s goals. The journey to the summit may be challenging, but the panoramic view from the peak promises a brighter and more prosperous future for everyone.
Prof Amer Jamil
Faisalabad
Published in Dawn, July 16th, 2024
