Sustainable Governance in Higher Education: A Meta-Synthesis Study in the Light of Fifth Generation Universities

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD student, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan

2 Professor of Public Management, Faculty of Economic and Administrative sciences , University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran

Abstract

As universities enter the new era, the concept of fifth-generation universities has emerged as advanced educational institutions that are responsive to global challenges. These universities not only engage in education and research, but also assume social and environmental responsibilities as influential institutions in society. In this regard, sustainable governance in higher education is proposed as a new management and structural approach that aims to achieve sustainable development in higher education through the participation of all stakeholders. The present study was conducted using a meta-synthesis method with the aim of examining the role of sustainable governance in higher education and providing a model in this field. This research is applied and its nature is exploratory. The statistical population included articles published in foreign scientific databases (Scopus, Science Direct, Emerald) between 2015 and 2025, and finally 52 relevant studies were selected and the dimensions and codes of the desired pattern were extracted by analyzing their content. Based on the findings, 21 components in five categories (economic, political, social, cultural, and environmental) were identified and labeled as the main dimensions of sustainable governance in higher education. According to the conceptual framework obtained in this study, sustainable governance in higher education, focusing on transparency, active stakeholder participation, sustainable financing, and promoting a culture of responsibility, improves educational quality, increases research effectiveness, and develops innovation in universities. Ultimately, this governance helps create sustainable and responsible educational environments globally.

References

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Governance and Development
Volume 5, Issue 4
December 2025
Pages 153-186

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