Governance Practices at Higher Education in Punjab and Sindh to Achieve the Goals of Higher Education Policies

Abstract

Higher education is one of the primary sources of national development in this century. However, the concentration in terms of quality and relevance in achieving the goals of Pakistani institutions has been challenging. This research investigates the governance practice in the higher education commissions (HECs) and higher education institutions (HEIs) of Punjab and Sindh provinces, assessing their alignment with national higher education policies. Using a qualitative, phenomenological research approach, it reflects on the life experiences of stakeholders, such as HEC officials from Pakistan and its provinces and representatives of provincial HEIs. Data was collected through document analysis and semi-structured interviews, offering insights into governance structures and practices. The research findings highlighted the positive aspects: commitment to improving educational standards, fostering academic integrity, and enhancing institutional autonomy with transparent decision-making and collaborative governance that engages stakeholders like faculty, staff, and students, which are increasingly recognized as important. However, resistance to change, bureaucratic red tape, and inadequate funding hinder the vision for effective governance in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Punjab and Sindh. A holistic governance approach, integrating policy frameworks with practical implementation strategies, is advocated to overcome these challenges. By emphasizing stakeholder engagement and ongoing dialogue, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers and educational leaders, promoting reforms to create a more dynamic and innovative higher education governance system in Punjab and Sindh.