University policy input examined

The SFC wants more collaboration with academics and policymakers

The contribution that Scottish universities make to the development of public policy will come under the spotlight at an event in Stirling.

The conference has been organised by the Scottish Higher Education and Funding Council (SFC).

It is hoped the event will increase the scale and impact of "knowledge sharing" between academics and public bodies.

The SFC will announce a competition for pilot projects which stimulate further collaboration between the two groups.

Delegates will examine how "knowledge exchange" between academic staff and policy makers contributed to major decisions, such as the introduction of the smoking ban.

Roger McClure, the chief executive of SFC, said: "The council is committed to improving the flow of knowledge, expertise and ideas between Scotland's universities and colleges and businesses, enterprises and the public services.

"Key to successful knowledge exchange in this area is the building of effective connections and collaborative relationships between academics and policy makers.

"This first event and the planned pilot projects are significant first steps."

The SFC distributes more than £1.6bm of public funds every year to colleges and universities on behalf of the Scottish Government.