Strengthening University-Industry Linkages Toward Knowledge And Technology Transfer: A Case Study Of Eduardo Mondlane University,Mozambique

Studies on University-Industry Linkages(UILs)have been progressively taking up a more significant part of research in Education in recent years.Amongst others,the literature emphasizes its contribution to countries’ economic development as one of the reasons.Due to this benefit as attested in developed countries where it is much explored,this concern has also been considered by researchers from developing countries.In Sub-Saharan Africa,Nigeria and South Africa have demonstrated much regard.Other countries,however,seem to be underinvestigated or manifest less interest when research in them is undertaken.Mozambique is one of the examples characterized by weak visibility of UILs.This research is qualitative and based on Eduardo Mondlane University(UEM)case.It explored human experiences to understand the motives of the state of UILs,stakeholders’ needs,and how can both identify opportunities for effective Knowledge and Technology Transfer(KTT).Through stratified,random,purposive,and snowball sampling,twelve participants representing University(7)and Industries(5)were selected.The data collection relied upon semi-structured interviews and document analysis.Built on General Inductive Approach,the study concluded that discontinuities in research activity,lack of interest from University’s leadership,insufficient involvement of the Government,inadequate preparedness of University,and firms’ culture have determined the stage of UILs.In terms of needs,institutional goals,funding,and policy head the list.As a strategy to identify opportunities for effective KTT,permanent and constructive dialogue with Industry and layout of an institutional interface gathering all stakeholders to share information is the path to take.