Assessing the Perceived University-Community Consulting Services for Sustainable Development: Insights from the Open University of Tanzania

Abstract

This study assessed the university-community consulting services for sustainable development: Insights from the Open University of Tanzania. The study aimed to explore the consulting services provided by the Open University of Tanzania; assess their impact in community development; identify challenges in university-community engagement. A study was informed by interpretive paradigm. A qualitative approach was employed using an exploratory case study design, conducted at the Open University of Tanzania. The study involved 37 respondents who shared their perceptions through interviews and online group discussion forum. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, through online group discussions and document reviews, and analyzed using content analysis. The findings indicate that the consulting services that are provided by the university are strategy consulting, e-commerce consulting, governance consulting, marketing consulting, management consulting, information technology consulting, human resources consulting, leadership consulting, environmental consulting, innovation consulting, public relations consulting and business process consulting. In terms of impact, it was disclosed that consulting services positively influenced the community, contributing to development across various sectors. The challenges identified included difficulties in quantifying the value of consulting services, limited staff engagement with the community, and bureaucratic hurdles. The study concluded that it is high time for universities in collaboration with private sectors to reflect on the consulting services they offer to the community in order to meet the needs of diverse population. Finally, the study recommends that the university prioritize the quantification of consulting services and enhancing staff training on community engagement services.