Johann Löhn underscores the importance of international technology transfer at an event in Beijing
How can we accelerate the translation of knowledge into marketable innovations? This question was addressed by Professor Dr. Dr. h. c. mult. Johann Löhn at this year’s Zhongguancun Forum in Beijing. The honorary trustee of the Steinbeis Foundation used his invitation to China to advocate for strategic, international technology transfer and to introduce the German Steinbeis transfer model with its focus on practical applications. The local Steinbeis partner in China is SUTM Beijing Co. Ltd.
The Zhongguancun Forum is a key pillar of China’s internationally focused innovation strategy. Johann Löhn took part as a guest speaker and panelist in various forums and panel discussions with representatives of research, business and government. In his opening address, he underscored the need to systematically build international innovation networks in order to enable more efficient transfer of technological solutions and ensure that they are better aligned with market requirements.
The Steinbeis model of technology-oriented knowledge transfer
In his contributions at the Zhongguancun Forum, Professor Löhn highlighted the transfer model developed by Steinbeis, which combines research focused on the requirements of businesses with an entrepreneurial mindset. He set out the principles that underpin the model’s success: decentralized transfer enterprises, a strongly results-driven approach, and close collaboration with small and medium-sized technology enterprises (SMEs). Best practice examples were discussed in the context of Sino-German cooperation and analyzed in terms of their applicability to different national innovation systems.
The project competence principle in education
Education was also a prominent topic in Beijing. In the higher education forum on the application of research findings, Professor Löhn explained Steinbeis University’s “project competence degree” concept, which combines theoretical professional development with practical project work in businesses. The advantage of this model – which is attracting growing interest internationally – is that rather than remaining abstract, the theoretical knowledge acquired is translated directly into economic value creation.
Dialogue with the younger generation
The speeches and panel discussions were accompanied by an opportunity to engage with young scientists. At the International Youth Innovation Forum, Professor Löhn called for targeted support for young talents, insisting that they should be given early access to real innovation processes. This is key to leveraging creative potential and securing the long-term future of international innovation networks. He went on to say how Steinbeis considers it vital to create platforms that allow young professionals to access global technology markets and innovation projects.
The last stop on Professor Löhn’s visit was Beijing University of Technology, where he spoke to a large audience of academics, businesspeople and policymakers about technology transfer and project competence in a global context. He addressed a number of questions, including how to ensure that technology transfer has a practical focus, the role of project work in education and training, and how successful German models can be adapted to local circumstances.
The Sino-German dialogue in Beijing demonstrated the growing importance of international innovation policy cooperation. Johann Löhn’s engagement is a prime example of systemic technology cooperation with a practical focus – and of the potential that arises from international networking among educators, researchers and entrepreneurs.
Contact
Helen Juan Ma (author)
Transfer entrepreneur
SUTM Beijing Co. Ltd. (Beijing)