FERM 2024 | `Mihai DIMIAN`: “We need education and research to be able to create higher value-added products and to support foreign trade.”
100 de oportunități economice pentru dezvoltarea Regiunii Moldova pe traseul Autostrăzii A7
Investment Panel
Module I – Mapping Opportunities in the Moldova Region in the Context of Attracting Foreign Investments and Revitalizing Foreign Trade, 18th Edition of the Moldova Regional Economic Forum, Vatra Dornei, 2024
SPEAKER – Mihai DIMIAN, Rector of “Ștefan cel Mare” University of Suceava (USV)
TOPIC: “Investments in University Education, Scientific Research, and Technology Transfer in the Region”
Context and Economic Developments
Rector Mihai Dimian began by providing a historical and personal context, mentioning his study experience in France in 2001. “The ratio of GDP per capita between Romania and France was then 1 to 25%. Today, this ratio is 1 to 2 or 1 to 3, which shows significant progress.” Mihai Dimian appreciated Romania’s efforts and progress during this period and emphasized the importance of equitable development, ensuring that all regions benefit from progress.
Global Competition and the Importance of Human Resources
Dimian highlighted the changing global economic landscape, noting that wages in Romania no longer provide a competitive advantage compared to other countries. “Our competitiveness will no longer be driven by low wages, but by the quality of the work offered. We must be very careful with the preparation of human resources.” The USV Rector emphasized the need for quality education and advanced research to maintain Romania’s competitive edge in the global market.
Challenges in Revitalizing Foreign Trade
Another important aspect addressed by Rector Dimian was the necessary support for Romanian companies in the context of foreign trade. “We must support Romanian companies and learn from past mistakes to accelerate the development process.” Mihai Dimian mentioned the challenges faced by Romanian companies in equipment production and the need to develop higher value-added products.
The Role of Education and Research
Rector Dimian emphasized the importance of investments in education and research for Romania’s economic development. “We need education and research to create higher value-added products and to support foreign trade.”
The Rector of Suceava University highlighted the fact that Romania allocates only 0.25% of GDP for research, compared to the EU average of 2%, underlining the need for greater investments in this area.
In conclusion, Mihai Dimian emphasized that the future of economic development in the Moldova Region largely depends on investments in education and research. These investments will enable the creation of competitive products and support foreign trade, thus contributing to the sustainable economic development of the region and the entire country.
