EDUCATIONAL CLUSTER INVEST IN EDU – SUMMARY OF COOPERATION BETWEEN SCIENCE AND BUSINESS (2015-2018)

Abstract

Education for the needs of a rapidly changing labor market is undoubtedly a modern challenge for education and science, while for business, the acquisition of employees with the competences expected by employers. Therefore, effective methods of cooperation between socio-economic and academic communities are increasingly sought for. This article presents the concept of cooperation between business and science in form of the Educational Cluster “INVEST in EDU”, established in Wałbrzych, in February 2015. The Wałbrzych Special Economic Zone “INVEST-PARK” is the leader of this cluster - it is one of the largest Special Economic Zones in Poland. Presentation of the conclusions that result from the summary (over three years) of the Educational Cluster “INVEST in EDU” functioning is purpose of this article. Authors analyzed existing clauses in the cluster’s strategic documents, as well as actions undertaken in 2015-2018. Final recommendations regarding further cooperation between business and science representatives were based, among others, on experience of The Angelus Silesius University of Applied Sciences in Wałbrzych, who became a member of the Cluster in June 2017.