Author:
Terefe Jima
Published in
Journal of Science Technology and Research
( Volume , Issue )
Page No: 1-36
Volume , Issue
Article Type:
Published Date:
Published by:
Abstract
It is recognized that the importance of linkage of higher education institutions with various industries for a given country sustainable development is essential. However, in one or another way the linkage between universities and industries seems to be very weak particularly in developing countries. In relation to this few studies have been conducted which were mainly focused on European and middle east countries and entrepreneur universities Hence to fill this gap, this study was conducted with the aim of examining the factors that determine the University-Industry linkage knowledge and Technology Transfer effectiveness in the case of two selected Universities (Mizan Tepi and Wollega Universities). Moreover, a mixed method approach (both descriptive and explanatory) was used to collect and analyze data for this study. For the sake of achieving this objective, primary data was collected through structured questionnaire from a sample of 235 academicians that were selected using stratified sampling techniques followed by random sampling for each strata selected. Moreover, informant interview was conducted with 11 industries concerned bodies that are selected using convenience sampling technique. While descriptive narrations through concurrent triangulation strategy were applied to analyze the data collected from document analysis and interview, data collected using questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric model (binary logistic regression). The study conclude that the status of university-industry linkage knowledge and technology transfer is at a growing/ infant stage in selected universities while it has long distance to go forward, as can be seen from senior and experienced local and international universities point of view. The result of the study indicates that the common types of university-industry interactions were limited to student internship program, consultancies (applicable for WU only) and training programmes. The result revealed also that lack of research funding, lack of laboratory facilities, Lack of enough encouragement for researchers to undertake more applicable research , weak capacity of industries to absorb and apply graduate research results ,Lack of mutual trust between university and industry, Insufficient publicity, weak exchange of researchers between industry and university, Weak dissemination of research out puts and weak implementation of policy frame that foster the link with academic research and industry were found significant factors in determining University-Industry Linkage knowledge and technology transfer effectiveness .
Keywords
university-industry linkages; knowledge and technology transfer; effectiveness, STATA Version 13
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ABSTRACT:

This study investigates the determinants of university-industry linkage with a focus on knowledge and technology transfer. It examines Mizan Tepi and Wollega Universities, where industry collaboration remains underdeveloped. The research uses a mixed-method approach combining surveys, interviews, and document analysis. Researchers collected data from 235 faculty members and 11 industry representatives. The findings show limited engagement beyond internships, training, and minor consultancies. Major challenges include insufficient research funding, poor laboratory facilities, lack of incentives for applied research, and weak industry capacity to absorb research outcomes. Additionally, low trust between universities and industries and ineffective policy frameworks hinder progress. The results emphasize the need for stronger partnerships and active policy enforcement. Universities must promote applied research, while industries should invest in R&D collaboration. By addressing these determinants of university-industry linkage, both sectors can unlock innovation and drive sustainable development. This study offers evidence-based insights to strengthen university-industry relations in developing nations.

INTRODUCTION:

In today’s knowledge-driven economy, the determinants of university-industry linkage play a crucial role in shaping innovation and national development. Strong collaboration between higher education institutions and industries ensures the effective transfer of research, technology, and human capital. However, such linkage remains weak in many developing countries, including Ethiopia. Despite growing recognition of its importance, few empirical studies have investigated the institutional and structural barriers impacting these linkages. This study focuses on Mizan Tepi and Wollega Universities, aiming to examine the key factors that influence knowledge and technology exchange with surrounding industries. While universities attempt to engage in applied research and industry partnerships, their efforts are often constrained by limited resources, lack of incentives for researchers, and minimal involvement from industrial stakeholders. Understanding the determinants of university-industry linkage is essential to creating practical policy frameworks that promote collaboration, improve innovation systems, and contribute meaningfully to socio-economic progress in emerging economies.

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