From technology transfer to the emergence of a triple helix culture: the experience of Algeria in innovation and technological capability development

Abstract

Based on the post-independence industrialization experience of Algeria, this paper explores the need for and the challenges and prospects of shifts of policies and strategies from central planning to decentralization and liberalization; from a heavy industry-dominated scenario to one dominated by SMEs; and from reliance on technology transfer to the development of a culture of innovation and technological learning. The paper highlights the business incubation system as an aspect of the triple helix model of innovation in which universities, industry, government and non-government organizations feature as principal actors in the national innovation system. The paper notes the need for both technology transfer and the development of the triple helix culture in developing countries. It also underlines the need for policy in developing countries to ensure that the former played only a residual role, while the latter took the lead in providing for the development of a culture of innovation. The culture of bureaucracy and institutional fragmentation has been a major factor militating against initiatives for technological capability development; and the conventional technology transfer practice has reinforced this culture. A major policy initiative is needed in developing countries to put the national system of innovation in place and remove the constraints on the development of the triple helix culture.

Notes

1. These state companies were in charge of a wide range of activities, including R&D, production, distribution, sales and the import of products related to their monopoly.

2. Private and small enterprises were not included in this strategy.

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28. These networks include representatives from the main ministries and other institutions such as the National Agency for the Development of Investment, the Association of Vocational Training Providers, the National Agency for the Employment of Youths, the main trade unions, the national and regional chambers of commerce, public and private enterprises, universities and research institutions.

29. The state company in charge of the production and distribution of electricity and gas.

30. Report of the First International Workshop on the introduction of business incubation systems in Algeria which took place in Algiers in May 2003.

31. Van Dijk and Sandee, op. cit., Ref. 18.

32. See, for example, J. Bessant, R. Kaplinsky and M. Morris, Developing capability through learning networks, International Journal of Technology Management & Sustainable Development, 2(1), 2002, pp. 5–18.

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38. These public enterprises can easily act as sponsors and mobilize resources to run incubators and enhance the development of indigenous technological capabilities. They can also provide opportunities for small businesses to be linked to them as vendors of components and services.