Adopting strategic management in higher education in India: need, challenges and ideas

Abstract

Quality and effectiveness of higher education in India remain significant areas of concern. The sector which is designated as not-for-profit remains heavily regulated by multiple statutory and regulatory agencies. This has resulted in institutions, especially in the private sector being unable to drive competitive advantage, leading to existential concerns. Strategic management is a proven concept for business sustenance, growth and organisational excellence across diverse domains such as military, industry and even academia, especially in developed countries. Higher education institutions in the USA have led the adoption of formal strategic management frameworks with a high degree of success. This paper examines the current state of higher education in India which necessitates the adoption of strategic management by institutions to achieve long-term sustenance and success. The paper also reflects upon the challenges in the adoption of strategic management and ideas to facilitate its adoption in the Indian context.