DEVELOPING A FRAMEWORK FOR INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS IN HYDROCARBON ECONOMIES/COUNTRIES

Abstract

Innovation is rapidly reshaping industries worldwide, including hydrocarbon processing, prompting the urgent need for sustainable economic strategies. Hydrocarbon-based economies face challenges in developing and implementing a comprehensive innovation strategy to achieve economic diversification and human capital development. The overall aim of this dissertation is to study the transition from finite resource reliance to a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation. The dissertation explores two interrelated pillars; innovation ecosystems and the diffusion of innovation in education, which is important in the progress towards KBE. The objectives encompass a comprehensive literature review, identifying critical opportunities and challenges, and examining factors influencing innovation adaptation in education. A systematic literature review, quantitative, and qualitative methodologies were employed to achieve the objectives, a total of 16 were interviewed in the focus group interview and more than 1120 respondents participated in the survey. Insightful interviews with business and academic professionals provided nuanced perspectives, while statistical analysis of survey data from Qatari schools shed light on factors affecting innovation in education. The study identifies the factors influencing innovation in education, which include teachers' understanding of innovation, workload, funding, and curriculum design, among others. This dissertation contributes valuable insights into fostering innovation and economic sustainability in hydrocarbon-based economies, emphasizing the need for diversified economic models and innovative educational practices to navigate an ever-evolving global landscape.