Lean for sustainable development in South Africa: A case study of three universities

Lean in higher education (LHE) is pursued for the reasons of improving efficiency and effectiveness of processes in High Education (HE). This review paper focuses on LHE within the university system to propose the implementation of lean culture and management into research and practices of South Africa universities, via a descriptive case study research method. The underpinning literature suggests that although the prospects of LHE has positive impact on both academic and non-academic practices in HE, however, research has also acknowledged some challenges. These challenges include; lack of strategic planning and limited knowledge on the interpretation of the lean philosophy and implementation. Three universities were used as case studies to ascertain their areas of successes with LHE implementation. This paper contributes to the LHE discourse and offers an option for the South Africa universities to strategize for improved academic outcomes and effective administrative processes. South African has been acknowledged to lead its Sub-Saharan African region in research and thus, the integration of LHE in the universities’ systems would positively impact this region and beyond. Furthermore, the paper recommends specific contextual adaptations of models tailored to meet individual institutional requirements and at the same time promote sustainable development.