Institutional Support for Collective Learning: Cluster Development in Kenya and Ghana

Authors: Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Banji; Lal, Kaushalesh

Source: African Development Review, Volume 18, Number 2, September/Septembre 2006 , pp. 258-278(21)

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Abstract:

Abstract:

The study analyses the role of institutional infrastructural and collective learning in adoption of new technologies. The data for the study come from the Suame cluster in Ghana and the Kamukunji and Kariobangi clusters in Kenya. The clusters are dominated by micro and small enterprises (MSEs). The findings of the study suggest that policy measures need to be taken by governments in developing countries to improve the performance of MSEs. It is found that greater participation of the private sector is required in setting up training and information service centres within clusters. These institutions could provide need-based skills for better usage of new technologies. This is more relevant for information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as e-mail and the Internet. These institutions could also be useful in searching function- and job-specific ICT tools which are not only expected to be efficient but cost effective. Such collective cluster initiatives are expected to result in better cluster performance.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8268.2006.00142.x

Affiliations: 1: Oyelaran-Oyeyinka and Lal are senior researcher/professor and researcher respectively with the United Nations University-Maastricht Economic and Social Research and Training Centre on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), Maastricht, The Netherlands.. The author to whom all correspondence should be sent is K. Lal, Tel: 0031-43-3506300, Fax: 0031-43-3506399, Email: Lal@intech.unu.edu

Publication date: 2006-09-01