The Mediating Role of Industry-Academia Collaboration in Enhancing Skill Development for Supply Chain Management in Central Asia and Pakistan
Abstract
The present research will propose an evaluation of whether or not collaboration between industry and academia acts as a mediator in the Central Asia and Pakistan’s context of adopting Skills Development for Supply Chain Management (SCM) practices. This study will be primarily based on the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model. This research will focus on the interplay of the industry’s participation with curriculum maturity, investment in educational materials, and actual practices. It will be conducted within a certain framework that encourages the overt interplay among the effectiveness and efficiency of these elements in transforming skills. This study aims to be quantitative by collecting primary data through questionnaires from students, faculty, and industry stakeholders involved in SCM. The sampling approach will utilize stratified random sampling to achieve a sample size of around 300 participants. Data collected will be processed through the statistical tool SPSS or AMOS for detailed analysis on the proposed hypothesis. Based on the defined scope, this research will undoubtedly illuminate pathways toward actionable recommendations aimed at educational institutions concerning the enhancement of linkages to industry practices, thus fostering improved educational practices and policies. This study's purpose in aligning industry requirements with education is to address graduate skill deficiencies and increase overall value in the economy. Future work is planned to specifically include industry-academic collaboration in a longitudinal prospective research design; gap analysis for specific sectors in the SC paradigm; and infusion of the latest technological developments with teaching curricula. These efforts will also aim to develop more comprehensive SCM educational reforms that enhance the systematic relations between the nation’s education and its industries.
Keywords: Industry-academia collaboration, curriculum relevance, investment in educational resources, access to practical experience, skill development, supply chain management, Central Asia, Pakistan
