Developing a Sustainable Quality Management (SQM) Model for Higher Education Institutions in Libya: A Case Study Approach

Abstract

While many of the challenges currently facing the Higher Education Sector (HES) relate to Quality Management (QM) and its sustainability, relatively few studies have examined this issue in developing countries. Previous research has shown that universities often find it difficult to sustain quality management programmes beyond their initial implementation stages.

This paper emphasises the integration of sustainability frameworks, such as the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) and Forum for the Future's Five Capitals Model (FCM), into higher education quality management programmes. It argues for the need to rebuild and improve Higher Education Total Quality Management (TQM) systems at different institutional levels through the integration of Critical Success Factors (CSFs), including continuous improvement, training, leadership, and process management, together with factors that influence sustainability, such as values, ethics, and organisational culture.

The paper draws on Quality Consciousness Indices based on the Deming Cycle (PDSA: Plan–Do–Study–Act) and the self-assessment models of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM). It explores how these frameworks can enhance quality within the higher education context of Libya as a developing country.

The study presents data and analysis from more than 30 interviews and 678 questionnaire responses collected from key higher education stakeholders in Libya, including university staff, students, administrators, senior management, and representatives of the National Quality Centre. Particular attention is given to one of the eight Critical Success Factors—Continuous Improvement—which is identified as a key element in integrating quality and sustainability within Libyan higher education.

Finally, the paper considers the relevance of Sustainable Quality Management (SQM) for higher education institutions in Libya and discusses its wider applicability to developing countries.