Organized on November 17th by the ANRT, the symposium "For a Grand National Plan for the PhD" brought together stakeholders to propose concrete solutions to the government. A national plan for the PhD is seen as an urgent necessity to reaffirm its importance. The ANRT emphasizes the universal value of the PhD, highlighting its central role in addressing development challenges. Event speakers stressed the PhD's positioning as a strategic asset on the international stage.
Sovereignty and Soft Power Challenges
The PhD is a key element of national sovereignty strategies, influencing soft power as well. The ANRT highlights the importance of PhD holders in the executive committees of international companies and calls for increased recognition of their contribution. The specific expertise gained during the PhD, along with the acquisition of cross-cutting skills, are unique assets that society must acknowledge.
Reflection Paths to Valorize the PhD
The ANRT proposes concrete paths to valorize the PhD by placing science at the heart of society, emphasizing doctoral training, and promoting graduates' integration into the private sector. It also underscores the need to change the perception of PhD holders by companies and calls for immediate actions to transform the situation in the long term.
In conclusion, the ANRT advocates for an evolution in the relationship between policymakers and scientific expertise, emphasizing the urgency of a grand national plan for the PhD. This plan, without requiring additional financial resources, would change the perception of the PhD in France and grant it a unique place in the educational landscape.