University–industry interactions in the Sultanate of Oman: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

University–industry (U–I) interactions are increasingly seen as critical components of national innovation systems and for building knowledge economies in developed and developing countries alike. Considering the Triple Helix (TH) model of innovation and the university–business cooperation framework, we report the results of a study on the current state of and barriers to U–I interactions in Oman. The study is based on a qualitative review of published higher education institute (HEI) quality audit reports and questionnaire surveys of HEIs and industry. It is suggested that Oman’s innovation system is currently based on the ‘statist’ model with some initiatives taking place to transition it towards the ‘integrated’ TH model. The results show that U–I interactions are mainly education-related, with limited emphasis on research and valorisation activities. Barriers identified include initiation and awareness constraints, limited funding, internal organisational culture and structure and industry’s limited absorptive capacity.