The Role of Emerging Regional Innovation System (Ris) for Regional Competitiveness in Ethiopia: A Case of Hawassa
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Date
2025-11-01
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Addis Abeba Universty
Abstract
In today’s globalized and knowledge-based economy, innovativeness is not merely a competitive advantage but a necessity for emerging economies such as Ethiopia. This study investigates the role of the Regional Innovation System (RIS) in promoting regional competitiveness, using Hawassa as a case study. It emphasizes the contributions of key innovation actors, regional innovation capacity, and policy frameworks. Grounded in the Quadruple Helix model and endogenous development theory, the study analyses how science, technology, and innovation (STI) policies contribute to an evolving innovation ecosystem. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative data from document reviews, key informant interviews, focus groups, and field observations with quantitative firm-level survey data. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data, while inferential analysis was employed for the quantitative data. Findings indicate that Ethiopia’s RIS is supported by STI policies that aim to foster an entrepreneurial culture, enhance R&D funding, and strengthen university-industry linkages. However, implementation is hampered by infrastructural limitations, weak coordination, and minimal R&D investment. Social enterprises and civil society actors also play a critical role in bridging gaps between higher education and labour market demands, thereby enhancing graduate employability. Although regional clusters such as Hawassa Industrial Park, Hawassa Industry Zone, and Yirgalem Agro-Industrial Park have made strides, they face challenges in achieving their intended innovation outcomes. Factors influencing firm-level innovation include location, access to resources, collaboration with universities, and internal R&D activities. The study concludes that overcoming structural barriers, reforming policies, and fostering inclusive institutional collaboration are essential for strengthening the Ethiopian innovation system. Universities— especially Hawassa University—and social enterprises must lead efforts to enhance capacity- building and promote sustainable regional innovation.
Keywords: Regional Innovation System (RIS), Regional Competitiveness, STI Policies, Quadruple Helix, Industrial Clusters, Innovation, Economic Development
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Keywords
Regional Innovation System (RIS), Regional Competitiveness, STI Policies, Quadruple Helix, Industrial Clusters, Innovation, Economic Development