Keywords
Collaborative Governance,
Industry-Education Integration
Eight Co-Actions
Higher Education Reform
China
How to Cite
Abstract
This paper explored construction paths and collaborative governance mechanisms of Modern Industry Colleges (MICs) in China in terms of the Eight Co-Actions model which promotes synergy between government, industry and higher education. Based on collaborative governance theory and value co-creation theory, we explored how universities institutionalize multi-stakeholder collaboration to advance regional innovation and talent development.Using a multi-case study design we studied three types of MICs (campus-led, enterprise-embedded and park-integrated) based on semi-structured interviews, policy document analysis and field observation. Thematic content analysis supported by NVivo 12, identified common governance themes in the Eight Co-Action dimensions. Findings revealed strengths and systemic challenges in MIC implementation, including fragmentation of governance and lack of dual-qualified teaching teams. We proposed dual-tier governance model and platform-based coordination mechanisms to promote sustainable industry-education integration. We contribute multi-dimensional analysis framework linking Eight Co-Actions, MIC typologies and collaborative mechanisms and provides policy insights relevant for education reform and innovation in transition economies.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mingmin Zou (Co-Authors); Lucio T Encio, Maoyun Xu (Author)