Rejuvenating the Contract of Academia With Society

Abstract

Academia owes the public a fresh look at its education and research mission. First and foremost, researchers must communicate the results of their latest studies in a truthful and meaningful way. Second, the traditional boundaries among disciplines should be blurred since innovation often blossoms along these boundaries. Third, universities should develop courses which are relevant for the skills required in the job market today. Finally, professors should mentor the future leaders of science, technology, arts and humanities and not just replicate themselves.