Relook at University Planning-Development for Sustainability in Higher Education

Abstract

Universities frequently suffer when they use linear, mechanistic thinking. Leaders can make too many erroneous assumptions about the future. In addition, when users view strategic plans as fixed road maps, they often fail to recognize the faulty assumptions that hinder their success along the way. They generally fail to harness emerging opportunities as well. To enhance outcomes, planners must ensure there are adequate resources for monitoring and adjusting plans during implementation. Those empowered to monitor outcomes and activities must fully understand that the planning core intentions are for development so that so they can effectively refine the plan as it unfolds. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, this study intends to explore some of these issues in an effort to enhance practice and intends to propose a framework for university planning and development to ensure sustainability in higher education.