Doctoral education and the knowledge triangle: dynamics of linkage to other sectors in doctoral programs in Uganda
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Date
2025
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Gulu University
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to explore the dynamics of linking doctoral programs to other sectors
constituting future workplaces and fields of public engagement for doctoral graduates in Uganda. This is in
light of the current global pressures for universities to contribute more directly to society, and changes in
student demographics and career aspirations. In a number of jurisdictions, intentional linkage to other
sectors is being pursued to better prepare doctoral graduates for work beyond academia. However, not
much is known about the dynamics involved. Guided by the knowledge triangle framework, this paper
posits that creating sufficient links between education, research and innovation through linkage to other
sectors can offer a window of opportunities for attaining relevant doctoral outcomes for both students and
wider society.
Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative multiple case study design was used to explore mechanisms of
linking doctoral programs to other sectors in Uganda. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with 45
participants selected across all institutions providing doctoral education in Uganda. Thematic analysis was used to
make sense of the data.
Findings – The study found no formal mechanisms for linking doctoral programs to other sectors. Lack of
institutionalization, narrow focus in program design, cultural mismatch and resource limitations were major
systemic constraints to effective linkage to other sectors in doctoral education. Institutionalization of
integrated learning in collaborative university-other sector settings in doctoral education in Uganda is
recommended.
Research limitations/implications – The research data is exclusively from higher education institutions, the
possibility of not comprehensively reflecting the broader perspectives from other sectors cannot be overlooked.Amore
comprehensive study of the dynamics of innovating doctoral education in Uganda through coherent collaboration
between higher education institutions and other sectors to ensure the success of linking education, research and
innovation is recommended.
Practical implications – Promoting the knowledge triangle approach in doctoral education by creation of
synergies between education, research and innovation through linkages to the other sectors would enhance the
attainment of relevant doctoral outcomes for students and the wider society
Description
This paper offers deeper insights into the dynamics of enhancing the relevance of
doctorates and doctoral research outputs beyond the academia.
Keywords Doctoral education, Knowledge triangle, Other sectors, Student demographics,
Career aspirations, Research, Innovation, Co-teaching, Co-supervision, Co-funding,