Incidence of sustainability in university performance: evidence of stakeholders’ perceptions at Colombian private higher education institutions

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to find the incidence of university sustainability, as sustainability practices, in university performance at private universities. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative research using structural equation modelling. Data collection and analysis followed sustainability and performance scales from previous research. The scales were validated by surveying students, teachers and administrative staff of five private universities in Medellin, Colombia. The responses (i.e. 5,344 useful answers) were collected between April 2019 and December 2020 and analysed using the Smart partial least square (PLS) software and the PLS calculation methodology. Findings The results confirmed the reliability and validity of the sustainability and performance university measurement models and validated the dimensions proposed to determine sustainability and performance holistically in private universities. The results confirmed that universities implementing sustainability holistically in their system positively impact their performance as higher education institutions. The university sustainability is forecasting the University Performance in about 60% of the universities analysed, with a considerable contribution from sustainability in outreach and strategic management. Research limitations/implications This study was cross-sectional and empirically validated the model of sustainability and performance at five private universities in a single period and territory. A broader validation from longitudinal studies considering other universities in Colombia and Latin America is suggested to understand local and regional trends better. Practical implications Results provided a model for better understanding the incidence of sustainability in performance holistically at private universities in developing countries such as Colombia. In addition, the proposed dimensions and model could help regional decision-making on higher education. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is one of the first attempts relating a structural equation model and inter-university research on the incidence of sustainability in private university performance. This work contributes to a local consensus on sustainability and performance models at private universities. Furthermore, from this research emerged a joint policy framework for incorporating sustainability holistically and regionally as an effective strategy for universities and their commitment to sustainable development.

Empowering Innovation and Performance in Higher Education: The Transformative Role of Participative Decision-Making

“…In the sphere of higher education, the performance and creativity of educators are pivotal elements that significantly influence the academic and developmental trajectories of institutions and their students [26,27]. Teacher performance, encompassing the effectiveness of pedagogical strategies, student engagement, and achievement outcomes, directly impacts the quality of education delivered within universities [28,29]. Similarly, creativity among educators, manifested through innovative teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and research endeavors, serves as a crucial driver for advancing knowledge, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for the complexities of the modern world [30][31][32].…”