University-Industry Collaboration Typology: A Systematic Literature Review

Authors

Meriam Kakuwaezi, University of Cape Town, South Africa

Gwamaka Mwalemba, University of Cape Town, South Africa

Published in

IST-Africa 2026 Conference Proceedings

ISSN: 2576-8581

ISBN: 978-1-905824-76-2

DOI: https://doi.org/tbc

Publisher

IST-Africa Institute and IIMC International Information Management Corporation Ltd

Published in Ireland

Abstract

This study conducts a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed articles published over the past decade to synthesise how university-industry collaboration (UIC) is conceptualised in contemporary research. Using a structured search across four major databases, 20 eligible studies were analysed through thematic analysis. The review identifies six recurring forms of collaboration: research, education, innovation, commercialisation, human resources, and relations. These forms capture the mechanisms through which universities and industry interact and reflect established typologies and emerging patterns. The resulting typology contributes conceptual clarity by integrating diverse classifications into a coherent structure. The paper concludes by outlining theoretical implications, practical considerations, and directions for future research.

Keywords

University, industry, collaboration, UIC, forms, typologies

Cite this paper

M. Kakuwaezi and G. Mwalemba (2026) "University-Industry Collaboration Typology: A Systematic Literature Review", IST-Africa 2026 Conference Proceedings, Miriam Cunningham and Paul Cunningham (Eds), IST-Africa Institute and IIMC, 2026, ISSN: 2576-8581, ISBN: 978-1-905824-76-2, https://doi.org/tbc

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