Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Role of Universities in Contributing
Towards Science and Technology Park
Development: A Framework of Critical
Success Factors
Quinton C. Kanhukamwe and Maxwell Chanakira
Abstract Universities can play a critical role in the growth dynamics of a Science
and Technology Park (STP) as well as economic development of a nation. The
research prowess of most universities has afforded them the opportunity to gen-
erate research and development outputs which have resulted in new high-tech
enterprises being established. Some companies have been enabled to take up new
technologies, new ideas and new processes whilst new products and services
continue to be churned out. This is indeed a paradigm shift that most universities in
Zimbabwe have had to contend with not only for purposes of economic devel-
opment but for their own survival too, hence the innovation and entrepreneurial-
driven thrust these institutions are beginning to take. Whilst there is need to
enhance capacity in most of the universities in the developing countries, the
critical ingredients for them to adequately perform and contribute to a Technology
Park development need to be provided. The innovation systems in these countries
also require continuous strengthening and upgrading. The study identifies critical
success factors in the establishment of successful STPs, location advantages of the
university, the level of skill of research staff, expenditure on R&D and successful
Public private Partnerships (PPPs). With an enabling environment, new invest-
ments, new companies, new jobs can be created as evidence of universities impact
and role in STP growth and development.
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