Academia-Industry Collaboration for Bridging the Research-Practice Gap in Nepalese Business Schools

Abstract

Purpose: This study develops and examines a conceptual framework for academia–industry collaboration (AIC) to bridge the research–practice gap (BRPG) in Nepalese business schools.

Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 257 faculty members from 43 business schools affiliated with national and international institutions across four provinces of Nepal. Multiple regression and mediation analyses were employed to examine the proposed relationships.

Findings: Evidence-based management and stakeholder engagement significantly and positively influence BRPG. Methodological rigor and research translation show positive but statistically insignificant direct effects. Academia–industry collaboration significantly mediates the relationships between all four antecedents and BRPG.

Implications: The findings highlight the importance of strengthening academia–industry collaboration to enhance the practical relevance, knowledge transfer, and societal impact of business research in Nepal.

Originality/Value: This study proposes and empirically validates a framework explaining how academia–industry collaboration bridges the research–practice gap in Nepalese business schools, contributing new evidence from a developing-country context.