Producing knowledge is not enough: we must make it overflow

Abstract

This editorial article reflects on the relationship between science, technology, and the necessary overflows for economic, social, and human development, centered around the reflections presented at the 30th Teaching, Research, and Extension Symposium of the Franciscan University (UFN). The central problem guiding the discussion investigates why excellence in scientific production does not always translate, in the same proportion, into effective capacity for society. The general objective is to analyze the transition from academic knowledge to applied solutions, highlighting the importance of the articulation between individual, collective, and artificial intelligence, as well as institutional strategy. The theoretical framework is based on the knowledge economy, innovation systems, and concepts of collective intelligence and strategy applied to national development. The method consists of an essayistic reflection structured on empirical examples of social impact in Brazil, such as INPE and SUS, and contemporary technological challenges. The results indicate that the true transformative potential of the university occurs when knowledge transcends academic boundaries and converts into collective and strategic capacity.