Identifying Key Gaps in Knowledge and Innovation Technology Transfer Using Pareto Analysis: Evidence from Horro Guduru Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia

Abstract

Technology transfer is the process of moving knowledge from universities and research institutions into practical application, but this process remains critically weak in Ethiopia despite substantial investment in higher education and a national Science, Technology and Innovation Policy. This study assessed the status of technology transfer for knowledge and innovation in the Horro Guduru Wollega Zone, Western Oromia, Ethiopia, using a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Data were collected from 185 respondents (92.5% response rate) across five institutions in the zone – using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and document review. Overall technology-transfer effectiveness was rated critically low (mean = 1.48/5), no functional technology transfer office existed, no patents or licenses had been executed in five years, and 88% of respondents reported no university–industry collaboration. Pareto analysis of 700 recorded complaints identified two “vital few” gaps accounting for 71.4% of all complaints: Weakness in Competition (35.7%) and Creativity Gap (35.7%). Root-cause analysis using fishbone diagrams and why-why analysis traced these to captive markets that remove competitive pressure to innovate and to the absence of physical innovation infrastructure. Building on these findings, the study proposes a Center for Competitiveness and Innovation (CCI), a multi-stakeholder hub with five integrated units, to be implemented through a phased strategy. The study contributes methodologically, empirically, and practically, and offers recommendations for policymakers, universities, TVET colleges, industry and development partners.