The three Dutch technical universities shared a space of more than 50 square metres at the worldâs largest industrial fair, with fourteen fascinating showcases presenting some of their latest technologies. The stand in the marketâs R&D hall attracted huge interest throughout all five days of the event. At its peak, as many as 400 attendees were present to learn more about the innovations set in train by the three institutions.âThe Hannover Messe was an excellent opportunity to show the strength of the Dutch universities of technology,â says IJsbrand Haagsma, Secretary of the 3TU Federation. âCo-operation with global industries, as facilitated through the Messe, is essential to bring smart solutions to the world.â
3TU.Innovation & Technology Conference
The federation has been profiling itself at home, too. At the 3TU.Innovation & Technology Conference in Eindhoven in December, about 300 visitors were shown just what the alliance is capable of, with researchers from the three universities demonstrating the results of investing their collaborative efforts. The accompanying Technology Fair featured showcases at which enthusiastic scientists gave some captivating demonstrations. Visitors also had the chance to take part in interactive workshops and lectures on the themes âhigh-tech and healthcareâ and âenergy and mobilityâ, as well as attending debates on current and future challenges. At the plenary session, incoming 3TU chairman Dirk Jan van den Berg outlined his view of the future under the title âVisions, Ambitions and Realityâ. The conference was so successful that there is already talk of holding a second event in March 2015.
Crucial
The 3TU.Federation is convinced that advanced technology is crucial to our future economic growth, prosperity and well-being. And to bring the Dutch technology sector up to full strength and to keep it that way, collaboration is essential. To this end, future 3TU activities will be closely harmonised with the recently forged Dutch Technology Pact and with the so-called âtop sectorsâ identified by the government. In this vision, education and research go hand in hand.