Copyright (c) 2025 Rohullah Samim, Muhammad Ishaq Noori

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
The Significance of Scientific Research in Higher Education Institutions of Afghanistan: Challenges, Solutions, and Strategies for Enhancement (2022-2024)
Corresponding Author(s) : Rohullah Samim
Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities,
Vol. 2 No. 4 (2025): October
Abstract
Scientific research is a fundamental pillar of higher education institutions (HEIs), driving knowledge production, innovation, and national development. This study explores the significance of scientific research within Afghanistan’s HEIs, identifies key challenges that impede its development, and proposes strategies to enhance it. Employing a qualitative, descriptive-analytical design, the research uses content analysis of data gathered through semi-structured interviews and a comprehensive literature review. A total of 30 participants were selected based on expertise, experience, and academic background, in line with the principle of theoretical saturation. The findings highlight the crucial role of scientific research in improving education quality, fostering researcher expertise, generating new knowledge, and strengthening academic recognition in Afghanistan. However, significant barriers hinder progress, including insufficient funding, outdated infrastructure, limited research tools, limited global collaboration, bureaucratic inefficiencies, a shortage of qualified researchers, and the commercialization of private universities. To address these obstacles, the study recommends comprehensive policy reforms such as capacity-building programs, improved access to up-to-date academic resources, the establishment of institutional research committees and peer-reviewed journals, enhanced financial support, and a strategic cultural shift to prioritize research within HEIs.
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