Reinforcing the Innovation-Employability Nexus
Funding
Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Spain, Tunisia
2020
Research & Innovation I Higher Education I Employability & Job Creation I Gender & Inclusion
Research I Writing & Editing I Diversity & Inclusion
Introduction
Paeradigms developed a comprehensive Handbook focused on mapping and strengthening higher education, industry, and policy-makers engagement in the Innovation-Employability Nexus. This initiative was a key element of the Union for the Mediterranean’s (UfM) strategy to serve as a multi-stakeholder platform.
Objectives
Paeradigms was brought in to:
Conduct an extensive literature review to identify key factors, available tools, and resources from employability and innovation practices, aiming to establish a comprehensive knowledge base.
Generate primary data through interviews and focus groups
Collaborate with stakeholders in higher education, industry, and government to co-create a publication highlighting practical applications of the innovation-employability nexus.
Background
UfM,an intergovernmental Euro-Mediterranean organisation which brings together all countries of the European Union and 16 countries of the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, prioritizes youth, women, and higher education and research. To bridge the gap between academic training and industry needs, UfM initiated the ‘Strengthening the Innovation-Employability Nexus’ project.
Approach
Paeradigms’ methodology involved:
Innovation-centric foundation: Basing the methodology on the Triple Helix of Innovation framework.
Literature exploration: Undertaking a rigorous literature review to provide an empirical base.
Multifaceted stakeholder engagement: Initiating structured dialogues with pivotal stakeholders spanning higher education, industry, governmental entities, and civil society.
Holistic mapping: Systematically charting pivotal initiatives, institutions, and best practices, incorporating considerations such as stakeholder involvement, geographical nuances, and financial and regulatory dimensions.
Outcome
Paeradigms successfully delivered:
A detailed map of initiatives, stakeholders, and best practices, covering geographical, financial, and regulatory dimensions.
A comprehensive handbook tailored for academia, industry, and policymakers.
Heightened awareness of policy instruments to boost employability and regional innovation.