The concept of governance in universities: Reality and ambition

This research addresses the governance aspect of universities in light of its importance in recent years in the global and local arena. There is now a definite need to enhance the competitive capacities, learning outputs and education quality of universities. The paper highlights the role of universities in governance, which are essential to achieve the basis and criteria of governance like greater transparency, participation, trust, reliability, and accountability. These aspects could help university administrators to play their role in addressing the challenges faced by them in the twenty-first century. There are a set of criteria that should be met in higher education institutions to conform to quality assurance, upgradation of education outcomes and gaining of international competitiveness. The paper also addresses aspects like strategic planning, governance, academic programs, human and financial resources, scientific research and services provided for students and the community as a whole. Governance in universities is responsible for helping tertiary education institutions to respond to other criteria in terms of accomplishing qualitative education outputs and performing their mission and vision competently and efficiently.