A framework for research engagement in South African universities

Abstract

This article analyses the concept of a research university. It addresses questions such as what a research university is, whether in a policy context it is a special type of university and what is the foundation for a research university. The author states reasons why an "one-sizefits- all" criteria to be a research university is not desirable. Doctoral degree programmes and commercialized research projects seen as the defining characteristics of a research university. In spite of higherlevel research outputs, it is argued that research development and capacity-building will be ongoing activities at the research university. These activities can be supported and coordinated by a centralized research administration.