Enhancing innovation and economic growth: The Role of research centres in facilitating technology transfer between tertiary institutions and industry

Abstract

This paper explores the critical role of research centres in enhancing innovation and fostering economic growth by facilitating effective technology transfer between tertiary institutions and industry. Drawing on stakeholder survey data from Zimbabwe and insights from global literature, the study highlights research centres as strategic intermediaries that enable knowledge flow, prototype development, commercialization, and policy alignment within national innovation ecosystems. In many developing contexts, including Zimbabwe, universities generate significant research outputs, yet these often fail to reach industry due to barriers such as inadequate funding, weak intellectual property systems, bureaucratic constraints, and lack of trust among key players. The findings show that while universities are viewed as sources of fundamental knowledge and skilled human capital, and industry is expected to commercialize innovations and define market needs, research centres are best positioned to bridge these spheres. Mechanisms such as joint research, innovation hubs, and co-designed curricula were identified as key enablers of collaboration. Respondents also emphasized the need for robust intellectual property frameworks, performance incentives, and sustained investment in research infrastructure to strengthen these linkages.