The article analyzes two streams of thought within the current debate on higher-education reform in Brazil. There are those who advocate increased spending on elementary education, even if at the cost of higher education. Others recommend expanding higher education but contend that the reform must assure all citizens equal access to this education; requirements for creating new courses must be loosened; and research should be fostered, whether or not integrated with teaching activities. The article argues that breaking the bond between scientific research and higher education will prompt losses which must be deducted from any gains in equity and deregulation. In order to be efficient, the reform must enhance interactions between the scientific and technological research communities, without jeopardizing the integrity of either, since both quite satisfactorily expand our store of knowledge even though they have their own unique goals.
higher education; scientific research; efficiency