Why do technology transfer efforts so often fail in developing countries?

To this persistent question, Dr. Ahmed Ayad offers a response that is both rigorous and innovative. Drawing on his extensive experience managing complex technological projects, he proposes in this book a new, systemic, and learning-centred framework to understand and successfully implement technology transfer in contexts marked by limited resources, low absorptive capacity, and long-standing dependence on foreign suppliers. Structured in three clear parts - conceptual foundations, a critique of imported innovation models, and an evaluation framework - this methodological and strategic guide deconstructs purely economic approaches in favour of a knowledge-based vision, progressive indigenisation, and the development of local capabilities. Intended for development practitioners (policymakers, managers, industry leaders, evaluators, economists, technologists) as well as the academic community (researchers, teachers, students), this book is a transformative tool. It challenges, equips, and inspires all those who wish to rethink the technological future of developing countries. A landmark work bridging theory, strategy, and action.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Ahmed AYAD is a consultant with over 25 years’ experience in the space sector. He served as Director of Algeria’s National Centre for the Exploitation of Remote Sensing Satellites (CNEST) from 2018 to 2024. Holder of several degrees, in computer science (Ing.–EMP), law (DEUA–UFC), information systems (MSc–INSA Lyon), business administration (MBA–UQAM), and technology management (PhD–Cranfield University), he specialises in issues related to technology transfer to developing countries. He is the author of numerous scientific publications on space technologies and technology transfer.