This paper argues that strengthening Latin America's public universities and, in general, institutions of higher learning and research, is a key requirement for building the competitive productive structure that may trigger and sustain a long-term economic expansion. Without it, Latin America will not keep pace with advances in science and technology, nor have the capacity to adapt them to finally succeed in its quest for economic development. The paper explores the channels through which public research universities favor economic growth in Latin America, and examines how this system can be widened, made more efficient and effectively used in the promotion of economic development. It also explores the hurdles in achieving this objective.
 
May 4, 2007.