Abstract:
There is a strong linkage between the academia and the industry in developed countries.
Research activities conducted by the lecturers in academia make them different to teachers
and the research outcomes implemented in the industry will lead to benefits to society. The
industry produces goods and services with the prime objective of maximizing individual
profit but it also provides benefits to the society and enriches lives of the public.
The main output of a university is the intellectual labour and but once a graduate engages
in work, there is a tendency to lose the linkage with the academia. It could result in fading
out their professional development. On the other hand, although the universities continue
research, it may be difficult to find a proper partner to implement the research findings in
the industry or to provide financial support. Ultimately, development of the industry may not
reach full potential and slow down the progress of the economy of the country. However,
there are socio-cultural reasons hindering development of a strong linkage between the
academia and industry as observed in the recent past and it is evident that there is a
necessity for both parties to work together.
In view of these circumstances, a qualitative research study was conducted to obtain the
views of stakeholders to assess the current academic-industry linkage. In the study, a
survey was conducted with semi structured open ended questions as it is required to give
the freedom for both academia and industrialists to express their views without framing
them to a set of specific questions. As a case study, direct interviews with the lecturers
from the Faculty of Engineering Technology were conducted and their responses were
recorded and verified. Senior Managers from the Industry were also contacted and their
views were obtained. The study focused on four key characteristics of a relationship shown
in literature such as vision, trust, benefit and attitude. Based on Content Theory and
Thematic Analysis, the intricacies of meaning within these characteristics were captured.
Narrative summary for each characteristic based on details provided by the respondents
was tabulated.
The results of the study revealed that it is hard for a one to one direct interaction of industry
and academia to exist and as such it is recommended that a unit is established in the
industry to liaise with a similar unit set up in the academia to strengthen the linkage. The
two units should possess the same work culture and work towards synchronization to
generate a synergic effect. It is a coherent interface for like-minds to comfortably work on
a shared vision with trust for mutual benefit.
