Sujata Gamage
Let me define informal. Glenda talked about knowledge in universities, that’s formal knowledge. Rasheed talked about intermediate organizations that take it to farmers.
Maybe we should focus on the informal. Innovation is part of the human condition, we’re always trying to make our life easy. For civilization to progress we want to formalize this. I’m saying, did we go too far, institutionalizing these things? I think this formalization of knowledge, we need to reconsider.
Look at innovation actors? Who’s missing? People who are producers. Firms are saying that universities are marginal. The most important links for businesses are with other suppliers, customers, consultants. World Bank says research is an important source of knowledge, more as a complement to others.
Solid Waste Sector As Case Study
We surveyed solid waste managers in 325 areas for where they got information. 18% were connected and successful. Their sources of knowledge were primarily from their peers. We began testing various linkages between peers, local government, etc. What works best is linkages with peers. You have to make sure that whatever they do fits in with the rhythm of their work.
We developed standards and certifications. Standards have to be developed by people in the field. This is a good way to formalize that knowledge.
Conclusion
Peer to peer linkages are productive. Government and universities should nurture these with humility.
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The session on Knowledge To Innovation is currently ongoing.
- Presentation by Glenda Kruss, Human Science Research Council, South Africa: Powerpoint
- Presentation by Rasheed Sulaiman, Centre for Research on Innovation and Science Policy, India:PowerPoint
- Presentation by Sujata Gamage, LIRNEasia: PowerPoint (PPTx)
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