Pakistan is under severe economic stress that has been heightened due to political instability. However, the solution to the crises lies in multiple sectors in the country with development in science and technology through innovation at the top. If we go through history, knowledge has always been the main driving force of world economies. The strength of any technologically advanced country depends on how strong its higher education system is augmented by innovative research.

Undoubtedly universities are the centers where new knowledge emerges and grows. Land-grant universities under the Morell Act in the late 1800s during the Civil War laid the foundation of the Industrial Revolution in the US. It expanded the research canvas significantly followed by technological advancements and fostering entrepreneurship, ultimately leading to astounding economic growth.

The same trend has been observed in many other countries. While traveling through history we find that the epochs of economic sufferings are often the cause of birth periods of unprecedented innovations and novel opportunities. The transformation from economic crises to industrial insurrection has one very strong contributory factor: The Pyramid of Success.

The pyramid’s concept outlines a progression toward economic prosperity across three tiers: Basic, applied, and commercialization. At the base of this pyramid lies Basic Research, where researchers and scientists, fueled by innate curiosity, meticulously investigate the intricacies of the natural world. Throughout history, there have been abundant instances of triumph resulting from investments in basic research. Following World War II, there was a surge in funding toward basic research, catalyzing breakthroughs in fields such as computing and semiconductors, thereby propelling decades of economic expansion. Similarly, advancements in mobile technology and e-commerce have paved the way for the contemporary digital landscape we inhabit today.

This fundamental stage establishes the basis for advancement to the subsequent tier, namely Applied Research. Here, the emphasis transitions towards converting discoveries from basic research into tangible solutions that tackle the challenges in our surroundings. This phase acts as a link between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, converting findings and innovations into commercially viable technologies through the efforts of engineers, inventors, and entrepreneurs.

The pinnacle of the pyramid represents commercialization. At this ultimate stage, innovations successfully penetrate the market and yield economic value. Businesses play a crucial role in translating applied research into tangible products and services. This process not only fosters economic growth by generating employment opportunities and circulating capital but also enriches societal well-being.

The interconnectedness among the various tiers of the pyramid is vital for its effectiveness. Each tier relies on the tier beneath it. Without the foundational knowledge uncovered by basic research, applied research would lack guidance. Similarly, without translating the results of applied research into practical solutions, commercialization would remain an unattainable goal. This cycle continues by reinvesting the outcomes of commercialization into basic research, thus perpetuating the cycle of innovation.

Yet, achieving success demands careful planning and deliberate actions. It’s essential to prioritize research domains with significant potential for economic influence. Encouraging interdisciplinary teamwork dismantles barriers and hastens the pace of innovation. Implementing efficient methods for transferring knowledge guarantees that research discoveries are accessible to enterprises and aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, establishing a conducive environment supported by favorable policies, robust infrastructure, and adequate access to funding is essential for transforming concepts into marketable products.

In conclusion, the Pyramid of Success provides a robust framework for navigating through economic challenges. By investing in the interconnected layers of basic research, applied research, and commercialization, societies can effectively turn obstacles into opportunities. Through strategic partnerships, targeted investments, and a steadfast dedication to innovation, we can establish economies that not only withstand crises but also flourish amidst them. This approach encourages cooperation among researchers, businesses, and policymakers, fostering an environment where basic research informs practical solutions and successful commercialization feeds back into further scientific exploration. The government must prioritize research funding for universities that demonstrably contribute to economic recovery through advancing the pyramid’s goals. The journey to the summit may be challenging, but the panoramic view from the peak promises a brighter and more prosperous future for everyone.

The Author is a Professor at University of Agriculture Faisalabad