Rectors say ‘third mission’ should be universities’ primary aim

Hard to measure outcomes are as important as research and teaching, say leading Italian rectors

Many Italian academics are still confused about the so-called ‘third mission’ of universities, which adds the impact of their work to the primary missions of teaching and research. But rectors who convened at the University of Cagliari earlier this month want to see this secondary objective—which includes patents, technology transfer and outreach activities—become a primary goal.

Riccardo Pietrabissa, rector of the University Institute of Higher Studies (IUSS), Pavia and coordinator of the commission of the Conference of University Rectors (CRUI)—devoted to valorisation and technology transfer—says the third mission is defined loosely, and can include nearly all university activities that are neither research nor formal education.