ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the links between different forms of technological knowledge and the learning processes by which they are created in African industry. It links knowledge generation with the behaviour and institutional support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and clusters. A particularly relevant concept to the system of innovation is the interaction of different actors through three broad learning channels namely, Research and Development, competition and networking. The chapter discusses the relevance of institutions to knowledge and skill creation, elaborates on the notions of inter-organizational collaboration, and the nature of systemic support for SMEs and clusters. It closes by discussing how learning is related to enterprise support systems. The chapter examines in some depth, the nature, prevalence and role of apprenticeship, and the links with tacit knowledge in promoting learning in firms. It is concerned with a firm's ability to undertake product and process innovation.
