| Title | Chapter 10 |
|---|---|
| Subtitle | Higher education policies for innovation and sustainability: A bibliometric analysis |
| Contributor | Lizl Steynberg(author) |
| Jan Petrus Grundling(author) | |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.4102/aosis.2025.BK566.10 |
| Landing page | https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/catalog/book/566 |
| License | https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ |
| Copyright | Marius Venter & Chané de Bruyn. Licensee: AOSIS (Pty) Ltd. The moral rights of the editors and authors have been asserted. |
| Publisher | AOSIS |
| Long abstract | This chapter examines the transformative role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in fostering innovation, green practices and sustainable local economic development (LED) amidst global sustainability challenges and opportunities. By focusing on the critical contributions of higher education policies, the chapter highlights their role in promoting resilient and sustainable growth within local communities. Employing a bibliometric analysis approach, the chapter investigates existing literature to identify key policy trends, challenges and opportunities that align higher education with LED objectives. The bibliometric analysis concentrates on the intersection of higher education, innovation, emerging technologies and green economies, drawing data from scientific publications featured in prominent global and regional journals. A comprehensive review of 258articles published between 2015 and 2024, sourced from Scopus – the leading database in education – resulted in the identification of 24 thematic clusters underscoring the multifaceted contributions of HEIs. Through an exploration of the interplay between global aspirations and local realities, the chapter underscores the critical role of HEIs as mediators, aligning research, education and community engagement with the United Nations’sustainable development goals. The findings reveal pronounced disparities in research focus and resource allocation between developed and developing regions, highlighting the necessity of inclusive policies and international collaborations. Emerging trends, such as the integration of digital technologies in sustainability initiatives and the growing emphasis on equity and stakeholder engagement, are also discussed. By synthesising insights from academic literature and policy analysis, the chapter provides actionable recommendations to enhance the role of HEIs as agents of sustainable transformation. It offers a strategic roadmap for policymakers, educators and institutional leaders to unlock the full potential of HEIs in shaping a sustainable, innovative and equitable future. |
| Print length | 22 pages |
| Language | English (Original) |
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Lizl Steynberg is a seasoned academic with a wealth of experience in the field of higher education and research. Her academic journey commenced in 1994 at the North-West University (NWU), South Africa, where she began her career as a researcher. In 2001, she joined TUT, South Africa, furthering her dedication to the world of academia. Throughout her impressive career, Lizl has demonstrated her passion for teaching and has successfully led 14undergraduate and three postgraduate courses. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as she has also supervised and mentored over 12 postgraduate students, nurturing the next generation of scholars. Lizl’s influence in the academic sphere is widely recognised, as evidenced by her active involvement in national and international research forums. She has presented over 71 conference papers, showcasing her expertise and insights to the broader academic community. Additionally, she has made significant contributions to the advancement of knowledge, with 25 academic articles published and collaborative efforts in 20 scholarly books. Her research pursuits focus on two primary areas: the internationalisation of higher education and research methodology. Through these specialised interests, Lizl has collaborated effectively with researchers in various disciplines, including entrepreneurship, small business management, and LED. Her dedication and achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she has received esteemed recognition throughout her academic career. Among her accolades, she was honoured with the TUT Vice-Chancellor Achievement Award in 2003, followed by research awards for five consecutive years from 2003 to 2008. In 2015, her outstanding teaching skills were celebrated with the prestigious Outstanding Teaching Award. With a passion for research, a commitment to education and a wealth of experience, Lizl continues to be a driving force in the academic world, inspiring students and colleagues alike. Her contributions to the internationalisation of higher education and research methodology remain invaluable, and she is poised to make even greater strides in the advancement of knowledge and learning.
Jan Petrus Grundling obtained his Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Industrial Psychology in 1979 from Stellenbosch University (SU), South Africa. In 1982, he completed his BCom (Hons), and in 1986, he completed his Master of Commerce (MCom) in Industrial Psychology from the University of South Africa (Unisa). He obtained his PhD in Organisational Leadership from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), South Africa, in 2017. In 1980, he started his career at the South African Defence Force(SADF) as the Head of the Department of Industrial Psychology at the Military Academy in Saldanha. In 1987, he was promoted to Senior Office at Military Intelligence in Pretoria. From 1988 to 1994, he joined the Armament Corporation of South Africa as Training Manager in Pretoria, and in 2001, he joined TUT. At TUT, he was the Director of the Centre of Entrepreneurship(2001–2012) and Organisation Director for the Joint African Masters on Comparative Local Development (2003–2012), and he is currently a researcher and senior lecturer in the Faculty of Management Sciences at TUT, as well as a research fellow at Chang’an University, Shaanxi and UJ, South Africa. He has published more than 110 conference papers and 42 journal articles, and he has hosted and participated in 20 national and university-level scientific research projects both nationally and abroad. Additionally, he has published more than 10 academic books, served as a reviewer of more than 10 academic journals and supervised more than 40 postgraduate students. His main research fields include linear programming, optimisation and control, industrial statistics and entrepreneurship. He received more than 11 awards for his contributions to the industry and academia.