Role of Openness in Communication in the Absorptive Capacity and Innovation Generation Link in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

This paper examines the role that Openness in Communication (OPCOM) plays in the acquisition and exploitation of new knowledge across faculties and departments of the higher education institution (HEI) community for Innovation Generation (INNG). Using the survey research design, data was collected from 282 lecturers purposively selected from the Business Schools of 20 HEIs in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. In testing the hypotheses proposed for the study, the data were analyzed using the Smart Partial Least Squares approach to structural equation modelling. The results revealed that OPCOM is important for the acquisition, sharing and transfer of knowledge in HEIs and has a mediation effect between knowledge acquisition and the generation of innovations. Even though the academic community is typically individualistic, mutual interest between academics can be stimulated if various platforms and open communication forums are established for the exchange and sharing of ideas, knowledge and opinions. HEIs need to invest resources and efforts at building strong relationships that facilitate collaboration, trust and interactions among varying faculties, departments and units. This will facilitate the easy sharing new knowledge to help innovate new products such as improved curricula, enhanced academic instruction and quality research output for the university to sustain their relevance and competitive advantage.