The Role of University-Industry Partnerships in Regional and Economic Development: A Case From Central Asia

• In Event: Building Equity and Maintaining Community Across Global Higher Education

Abstract

In Kazakhstan, university-industry partnerships (UIPs) in regional development have been
emphasized in multiple governmental policies and programs. Several initiatives have been taken
to facilitate UIPs. However, the contribution of UIPs to regional development in Kazakhstan
remains underexplored and needs thorough exploration, especially in the context of contradicting
research findings of the contribution of UIPs in regional development. This paper aims to
understand the role of UIPs in regional development in Kazakhstan. The findings suggest that
UIPs' role is multidimensional. The most apparent benefits are social ones, specifically the
development of qualified human capital and increased graduates' employment. Scientific,
economic and financial contributions are less evident that is explained by the constrained
environment UIPs are embedded in.

Authors

• Dilrabo Jonbekova, Nazarbayev University

• Matthew Hartley, University of Pennsylvania

• Gulfiya Kuchumova, Nazarbayev University

• Mariya Ippolitova, Nazarbayev University