A framework of science and technology in higher education for sustainable development for Somaliland

Abstract

The integration of science and technology (S&T) in higher education institutions (HEIs) is significant for economic growth and sustainable development goals (SDGs). HEIs in Somaliland have not yet stressed the need to integrate S&T in education in their planning to achieve their national SDGs. Also, the government did not put a concrete plan in place towards building S&T capacities in education which play an important factor in the economic growth. Therefore, the aim of this research is to develop an indigenous and comprehensive framework to ensure sustainable development goals in Somaliland. It is an integrated framework for SD of Somaliland that incorporates S&T, HEIs and human capital. This study used a mixed method (survey and interview) to collect the data from six HEIs in Somaliland and document reviews. Questionnaires were distributed to 350 respondents ranging from faculty deans/head of department of S&T related programs and senior lecturers, and 215 responded. Also, interviews were conducted with six top managements of the HEIs. The findings indicated that insufficient of S&T, research and development (R&D) and community engagement (CE) at institutional and program levels. It can be concluded that the S&T capacity in HEIs in Somaliland is not capable of advancing the progress for SDGs. In addition, the findings also show an ineffective and a lack of collaboration among HEIs, industries and public sectors within the national framework. The findings were used to develop the proposed (i) guidelines to incorporate capacities (S&T, R&D and CE) in HEIs into SDGs and (ii) the framework. The framework incorporates S&T in HEIs into Somaliland SDGs and other stakeholders including the business sector. The framework was validated by experts in education and development sectors. The framework is aligned to the SDG of Somaliland Vision 2030 as well as Higher Education Sector Plan. Future research, particularly in under-developed countries, should focus on specific industrial clusters as well as thematic measures of sustainability, policy implementation and HEIs leadership towards SDGs.