Malta's higher education dimension : analysing the extent of complexity in change

Abstract

Change is a constant challenge in the higher education sector. Higher education institutions (HEIs) are expected to respond adequately to developing circumstances. This paper focuses on the extent of complexity in change, a factor that at times is overlooked. It brings into light the reality that managerial changes, that were affected to respond to the changing context, could eventually result as an inhibitor towards achieving the desired performance. The first section of this paper outlines the determining changes shaping the Maltese higher education context through a comparative global perspective. Section 2 assesses how contextual changes are influencing the governing and managerial dynamics of higher education. This section also introduces the notion of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Section 3 discusses the extent of complexity stemming from institutional structures and through the Stateinstitutional relationship. Section 4 reviews the extent of complexity in a continuum of structures and managerial processes by considering programmes of study, staff, stakeholder involvement, collaborative arrangements, and funding.