The extent of the role of universities in enhancing the position of Arab countries within the Global Innovation Index

Abstract

Innovation gains an increasing interest at the international level. This is because innovation became a key variable in determining the degree of economic development and is seen as the essence for economic prosperity and development. In this context, the Global Innovation Index (GII) measures the level of innovativeness. One of its core components focuses on the role played by the Higher education institutes, since these latter are considered as incubator for innovation activities. It is also a proxy of its educational and academic reputation. Universities seek further excellence and look for better positioning by reinforcing the role of research and academic canvas. They are called to update their policies to enhance the value of their outputs toward international quality standards. As such, universities would enable graduates to participate in the progress of their societies, as well as motivating researchers to increase their research and innovative act. Therefore, the university is a pivotal actor in the process of development. The paper seeks to shed light on the possible missions that universities should undertake to improve the ranking of Arab countries at an acceptable level within the GII. .