The University as A Health Innovation Driver: A Comparative Analysis of Institutional Mechanisms and University–Industry Partnerships

Technology transfer (TT) in biomedicine plays a strategic role in transforming scientific discoveries into clinical and industrial applications, notably in medicines, diagnostics, and medical devices. However, its effectiveness varies widely across regions, depending on regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and the dynamics of university–industry partnerships. This comparative study analyzes TT models in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa, drawing on academic sources and institutional data, including patents, investments, and human development indicators. The findings highlight four approaches: an entrepreneurial venture-capital-driven model (United States), a hybrid public–private model (Europe), a model integrated into national health and innovation policies (Asia), and emerging models characterized by adaptability and international partnerships (Africa). The study concludes that strengthening intellectual property regimes, diversifying funding mechanisms, and stimulating university–industry collaboration are essential to accelerate TT in biomedicine—particularly in Africa, where building robust innovation ecosystems remains a critical condition for global competitiveness and equitable health outcomes.