Entrepreneurial University as a Driver of University Transformation Towards Sustainable Innovation

Abstract

This article examines the function of Entrepreneurial Universities as catalysts for transforming higher education institutions towards sustainable innovation. As social and environmental challenges become more intricate, universities are anticipated to serve as educational entities and proactive agents of change. In light of increasing demands to contribute to national innovation efforts, this exploratory case study analyzes the application of the entrepreneurial university concept within the State Islamic University UIN Bukittinggi. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior faculty members from diverse fields to gather insights on the third mission of entrepreneurship and the complexities involved in fostering a cohesive entrepreneurial identity within these institutions. The research reveals an expanding divide among academic disciplines within the university. Such differing perspectives may create discord within the academic community and impede progress towards fulfilling the third mission. Findings indicate that strong support from senior management for the entrepreneurial university ideals may, paradoxically, diminish overall entrepreneurial activities within the institution. This study contributes to understanding the entrepreneurial process and identifies several significant obstacles to achieving entrepreneurial aspirations. Ultimately, it challenges the claim by Etzkowitz et al. (2000) that the entrepreneurial university concept represents a global phenomenon with uniform developmental paths.