University Knowledge Transfer and Its Associated Challenges for Sustainable Impact: Case of the University of Rwanda

Abstract

Purpose: The study sought to identify the obstacles that university-based hubs confront in attaining long-term effects.

Methodology: Given the subjective character of the topic under investigation, the study took a qualitative approach and was guided by the Triple Helix Model. The University of Rwanda was used as a case study, with five respondents questioned.

Findings: The study discovered that, while certain gains have been recorded, there are still many problems that are impeding the realization of the aims of building ihubs. Internal shortcomings included poor communication between departments, incompatible university administrative structures, insufficient finance, and a lack of labs and other critical technology. External weaknesses, on the other hand, revolved around the informal character of the university-industry connections. These flaws have resulted in what is known as single confinement.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study makes several recommendations for ihubs to have a long-term impact including streamlining the University of Rwanda's management, increasing university funding, improving interdepartmental communication at the university, and formalizing links between the university and the industrial sector.