EIT 'not feasible', UN experts warn [fr] [de]

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The decentralised European Institute of Technology (EIT) proposed by the Commission is "not feasible" and the proposed financial basis is considered as "not sustainable", argues an independent expert report published on 5 April 2007.

The report, drafted by the United Nations University (UNU) at the request of the European Parliament, states that a decentralised institute would not significantly increase the research output, match Europe's top universities' training environment nor adequately organise technology transfer. 

In fact, the authors argue that not all EU countries, regions and institutions have problems with converting knowledge into commerce and critical mass, rewarding entrepreneurship and excellence in research and education. "Ignoring this fact might result in assuming too easily that a European level institutional solution is necessary in cases where national or regional approaches might be more appropriate," stress the authors.

The report recommends an alternative model, a Cluster EIT, which would support existing local and regional strongholds in research, education and innovation. It would "see ambitious and successful regions and universities compete to create strong institutes at or linked to a strong university, and working closely with industry on problems that determine long-term industrial development". 

Up to 20 European Institutes of Technology could be created, each of which would have their own multidisciplinary theme, some 300 scientific and engineering staff in addition to PhDs and an annual budget of up to €70 million. With regard the financial basis for the Cluster EIT, the report proposes the establishment of a European Innovation Fund using part of the money that is yearly left over from the EU budget. 

A public hearing on the EIT will take place in the European Parliament on 2 May 2007.

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