New Report Highlights Urgent Need for Strategic Framework in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Knowledge Collaborations

A new critical analysis by the Council of Canadian Academies underscores a significant gap in Canada’s approach to international science, technology, innovation, and knowledge (STIK) partnerships.

Titled “Navigating Collaborative Futures,” the report unveils the absence of a cohesive strategy for assessing international collaboration opportunities, a gap that becomes increasingly problematic amidst the fast-paced evolution of global challenges and opportunities for partnership.

The report advocates for a strategic, evidence-based, and data-driven framework to better evaluate and harness international STIK partnerships, aligning them with Canada’s national priorities.

“The stakes of remaining inactive in refining our approach to these partnerships are high, potentially jeopardizing Canada’s resilience and prosperity,” states Monica Gattinger, PhD, who leads the Expert Panel on International Science, Technology, Innovation, and Knowledge Partnerships.

The call for action is clear: Canada must adopt a methodical and strategic stance toward international STIK collaborations to navigate future challenges and opportunities successfully.

Despite Canada’s strong foundation in global STIK endeavors, marked by a highly educated workforce, cutting-edge research infrastructure, and a vibrant domestic science and technology scene, the report points out a critical flaw: the lack of coordinated effort across organizations involved in STIK activities. This fragmentation hampers Canada’s ability to attract talent, exchange knowledge, manage risks, and leverage the global STIK community effectively.

“Addressing today’s global challenges requires a deliberate and adaptable approach to innovation and collaboration,” notes Tijs Creutzberg, PhD, Interim President and CEO of the Council of Canadian Academies. The report, while aimed primarily at federal government users, offers valuable insights and a guide for any entity evaluating international STIK partnerships.

For those interested in advancing Canada’s role in the global STIK landscape, the full “Navigating Collaborative Futures” report and its accompanying user guide are available for download at cca-reports.ca, providing a roadmap for strategic engagement in international partnerships.