DYNAMICS OF ACADEMIC GOVERNANCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION SINSTITUTIONS: A SEQUENTIAL EXPLORATORY STUDY OF STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES OF ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA

Abstract

This study explores the dynamics of academic governance in higher education institutions, focusing on state universities and colleges in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Using a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the governance structures, governance practices, institutional outcomes, stakeholders engagement, and stakeholders insight of governance effectiveness. The research begins with a qualitative phase, involving in-depth interviews with key stakeholders such as state university and college presidents and vice president for academic affairs, and focus group discussions with deans, directors, faculty members, and student representatives. This phase uncovers themes related to transparency, inclusivity, and empowerment. The findings inform the development of a quantitative survey instrument used in the second phase to gather data from a larger sample of participants across multiple institutions. The study reveals that there is gap between the intention of the governance structure as articulated by leadership and its actual impact on faculty and students, transparency and inclusivity are consistently identified as key factors in effective governance, and leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the governance culture and promoting positive change.  The research identifies key themes and patterns such as the implementation gap, the importance of transparency and inclusivity, and the role of leadership. Key findings highlight the importance of shared governance, transparent communication channels, and adaptive leadership in fostering effective academic governance. This study contributes to the literature on higher education governance in developing contexts and provides practical recommendations for policymakers and institutional leaders to enhance governance effectiveness in state universities and colleges.