Co-creating Universities of Applied Sciences Models with the FAITH Toolboxes Capacity Building Training for Ethiopian Universities of Applied Sciences

Abstract The Higher Education Differentiation Strategy of Ethiopia aims to transform selected public universities into Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS). This transformation looks to enhance graduate employment, promote collaboration between universities and industries, foster applied research, and support the socio-economic development of the nation. To achieve this transformation, it is essential to build the capacity of university leaders and faculty members. This paper examines the effectiveness of the FAITH (Fit, Adjusted, Innovative, Trendy, and Holistic) Toolbox's capacity-building program in enhancing competencies related to UAS transformation. The study employed convergent mixed-methods pretest-post test design, gathering both quantitative surveys and qualitative reflections from 213 participants. Data was collected using a questionnaire and open-ended items online that focused on six dimensions: outcome-based curriculum development, applied research and co-creation with industries, university-industry partnerships, engagement with industry experts, quality internship delivery, and the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Descriptive statistics and pre-test/post-test comparisons were employed to evaluate the effects of the training. In addition, qualitative data was analyzed thematically according to the framework proven by Braun and Clarke [4]. The mean competency scores improved from 2.97 before the training to 3.99 afterwards, being an increase of 1.02 (ΔM) or 34.3% improvement, showing a large effect size (1.02). The most significant gains were seen in areas such as applied research, industry co-creation, engagement of industry experts, quality internships, and the alignment of programs with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, the qualitative data revealed that participants gained a deeper understanding of the philosophy of University of Applied Sciences (UAS), outcome- and competency-based education, applied research, university-industry connections, internship reforms, and institutional transformation. Participants showed a strong commitment to implementing curriculum reforms, building industry connections, integrating work-based learning, and making institutional changes. However, participants often expressed that the sustainability of the UAS reforms depends on several factors, including strategic institutional policies, sufficient funding, leadership commitment within institutions, professional development, KPI-based monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and strong collaboration between academic institutions, industry and development partners.