Marjolein Zweekhorst

Professor, Programme Director Management Policy Analysis and Entrepreneurship in the Health and Life Sciences, Athena Institute, VU University Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Knowledge is an essential element for development and knowledge sharing is key for reaching the SDGs. But what is even more important, is how the knowledge is obtained. Knowledge created by academics in a disciplinary field is not enough anymore. In order to address the complex questions the world is facing today and to contribute to development, multiple stakeholders need to co-create knowledge together. Mutual learning and knowledge sharing is what the world needs today. It is of utmost importance that knowledge of local communities is shared and integrated with other knowledge sources. However, knowledge sharing and mutual learning is complex. Therefore, we need to apply different methodologies.  Transdisciplinary research is a form of learning and problem-solving, which aims to address complex problems. It is based on mutual learning among various stakeholders and it evolves various learning cycles. Transdisciplinary research stimulates the needed co-creation of knowledge. Therefore, I would like to emphasize the importance to train researchers in this type of research.