UNZ submission on the Research, Science and Innovation Strategy

Universities New Zealand has made a submission to MBIE on the Research, Science and Innovation Strategy.

UNZ believes the draft strategy builds well on its foundation document, the National Statement of Science Investment. The importance of this strategy and those of other government agencies aligning with one another will be critical for achieving maximum benefit from this strategy.

UNZ also commends the recognition that to achieve the step changes required to give effect to this strategy and the NSSI, New Zealand's RS&I system will require a significant increase in funding and we recommend front-loading new investments as much as possible to accelerate progress.

The areas within the draft strategy that require the greatest focus for improvement are around impact, the role of NZ universities in the RS&I system, and the emphasis on commercialisation (businesses and ‘science technology’).