Identifying an Innovation Leadership Framework Model for Saudi Universities

Abstract

Saudi Arabia currently scores 54.5 on the Global Knowledge Index (scale 0=worst, 100=best). United States scores highest at 66.9. This paper focused on identifying an innovation leadership framework tailored for Saudi universities. After determining (a) four factors pursuant to innovation in Saudi higher education (i.e., a culture of innovation, innovation purpose, innovation requirements, and innovation challenges) and (b) the three existing innovation models in use at Saudi universities (i.e., entrepreneurship, industry compatible, and patents), we (c) proposed an innovation leadership framework and model for the Saudi higher education context. It uniquely accommodates the four factors as well as both entrepreneurship and patents, which could, in turn, facilitate transferring innovative academic outputs to the market. It also accommodates faculty members interested in liaising with industry (entrepreneurs and patents) as well as those concerned with student learning, serving society, and helping the nation achieve Vision 2030’s national development goals including a knowledge-based economy. Our proposed framework is the first of its kind for Saudi Arabia.