Strategies for Human Resource Development Supporting Technology Transfer

Abstract

The successful transfer of technology to developing countries is recognized as highly dependent on matching the knowledge and skills of the indigenous recipients with what is required to apply the technology successfully. Strategies for ensuring a timely supply of appropriately trained human resources are examined in light of linkages between the sources of technology, the implementing/operating organization and educational/training institutions. Based on this assessment, a more adaptive strategy is suggested. It emphasizes the source/implementer linkage, adds training capabilities to it and “pulls” both users of the technology and educational/training institutions toward sharply focused needs growing out of each specific transfer activity. Seen as less effective is the more traditional “push” strategy that depends on less effective linkages and produces more generally qualified implementers whose competences tend to be out of phase with requirements. The more promising strategy is seen as capable of improving the effectiveness of the educational/training institutions rather than reducing their importance.