Plugging Holes in the University Systems for National Developments in the Knowledge Economy Context: Experiences from Tanzania

Newton M. Kyando
Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA)
TIA Mbeya Campus
Email: nkyando@gmail.com

Abstract: This paper highlights the knowledge economy as a binding particle and a missing link for State, University, and Industries relation. It aimed at answering a question on how can the holes on the state-university link be plugged to strengthen this relation in the knowledge economy context. The theoretical framework guiding this discussion is the
Decision making theory and the Four Strategic Engagement Zones. Its methodological philosophy is built of the interpretive paradigm using interpretive theory. As a qualitative study, it employed document analysis supported by detailed interviews, and data analysis was done through thematic, content, and discourse analysis. The discussion builds on the proposition that supporting university-based research is considered an important element in strategies to promote and sustain economic growth. Findings indicate an increasing demand for research -based information for policy purposes. Globalization forces have posed both challenges and opportunities in research use as well as university -state relations. Research skills, which were traditionally housed in the universities, are now seen in non-university institutions while universities are more pulled into teaching as result of higher education massification. In both qualitative and quantitative terms, research is seen to be concentrated away from universities making universities less relevant partner in policy processes. It was concluded therefore that globalization has improved information search and access mechanisms; however, operational traditions and frameworks in this context are making it difficult for state-university relations. The study recommends that to improve the university-state relation there is a need, among other things, to consider a number of strategies including the following: an increased resource allocation to support knowledge creation and related activities and reviews of policies and operational frameworks in all areas where hole-plugging initiatives will be focusing. Policy reviews are important to arrest crosscutting issues that interfere with knowledge creation phenomenon in universities.