Policies to Promote Research and Innovation in Developing Countries' Universities: The Case of Thailand. (September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tantanee, Sarintip; Apichayakul, Phisut; Buranajarukorn, Panu; Pardthaisong, Liwa; Suwanprasit, Chanida; Charoenpanyanet, Arisara; Sin-Ampol, Phaothai
• Other Names: Richards Cameron guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Indian journal of public administration. Volume 65:Number 3(2019)
• Page Start: 718
• Page End: 732
• Publication Date: 2019-09
• Subjects: Research and innovation -- higher education institutions -- current contexts and gaps -- developing countries; Public administration -- Periodicals; India -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; 351.54005
• DOI: 10.1177/0019556119840956
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0019-5561

Abstract

Research and Innovation (R&I) has played an important role in constructing new knowledge in higher education institutions (HEIs) worldwide. There are both enabler and barrier factors on R&I capabilities in HEIs; therefore, this paper aims to investigate the importance, current contexts and gaps in R&I capacity building of Thai HEIs and the possibilities for improvement. Thirteen policymakers from HEI's Authorities and Research Funding Agencies were interviewed in-depth. In addition, an online survey has been conducted with 172 university academic staff, who have been involved in R&I. The results show that the majority of respondents agree that R&I is very important; however, these activities have not been clearly supported by national policies. From the suggestions for improvement, the whole R&I supporting system, from the national to the HEIs levels, should be developed and improved through policy, skill acquisition and job opportunities, research grants and enhancing national and international collaborations.