Reality of the Role of Universities in Yemen in Serving Local Community Promises vs. Practices

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying the role of universities in Yemen in providing services for the local community. To achieve this aim, an electronic questionnaire was designed to collect the required data and was administered to a sample of 150 participants from 23 public and private universities. The descriptive analytic approach was followed. The study reached several results, the most prominent of which are: that universities in Yemen collaborate with local communities in terms of local services, as the educational services provided by universities to local communities scored the highest percentage (75.3%) among other services, confirming that universities provide quality specializations that meet actual local needs. Results also showed that universities in Yemen offer courses in mastering computer skills, as well as that they are keen on publishing scientific researches to serve the local communities. In addition,  the results showed that there is a positive partnership between universities and local communities. Universities participate with local communities in organizing various events and occasional activities. This study concluded with some relevant recommendations for universities in Yemen and for policy makers in the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.