Proposal of an idealized operational model for improving the governance of public higher education institutions in Morocco

Abstract

The objective of this research is to propose an idealized operating model aimed at improving the strategic steering of public higher education institutions in Morocco. The study adopts an exploratory qualitative approach, based on a “desk-based theorization” process grounded in abductive reasoning. It draws on concepts and theoretical foundations from the scientific literature on public management and organizational performance, with the purpose of developing new conceptual frameworks and analytical propositions. These may, in future research, be confronted with field observations likely to strengthen their validity. These propositions were subsequently confronted with external field observations, thereby strengthening their validity. The findings of the study lead to a set of operational recommendations likely to enhance the steering and governance mechanisms of public higher education institutions in Morocco. The integration of these recommendations results in an idealized operating model structured around three interrelated processes: a steering process, corresponding to the “engine” that drives institutions toward the achievement of their objectives; an operational implementation process, corresponding to the “organ” responsible for translating objectives into action; and a support process, representing the “energy” required to sustain and enable the other two processes in achieving the organization’s strategic goals.