THE ROLE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARKS IN ENHANCING UNIVERSITY–INDUSTRY COLLABORATION IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

In recent years, science and technology parks (STPs) have been increasingly leveraged as policy instruments to stimulate innovation and develop knowledge-based clusters in both developed and developing countries. These parks are intended to provide firms with resources to enhance technological and innovative capabilities. This study examines the role of STPs in facilitating university-industry interactions within the context of a developing country. A case study of Software Technology Parks (STPs) in Islamabad, Pakistan, served as the primary data source. Findings indicate that STPs in Islamabad have a limited impact on strengthening academic-industry linkages, with only 19% of firms reporting connections to higher education institutions. Among these, linkages were predominantly focused on human resources (19%) or informal collaborations (12.5%). The study highlights the need for policy interventions and strategic initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of STPs in promoting meaningful university-industry partnerships in Pakistan.