The Role of University Governance in Enhancing Research Performance: Evidence from Ethiopian Public Universities

Abstract

Inadequate implementation of university governance principles in public universities can severely impact academic research performance, affecting not only the academic institutions but also the broader community and society. This study aimed to assess the role of university governance in enhancing the research performance of public universities in Ethiopia. To achieve this objective, a total of 377 instructors and academic officials were selected from six public universities using a multistage random sampling method. Data collected from these participants were analyzed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and a multiple linear regression model. The findings showed that factors such as academic freedom, accountability, and responsibility exhibited a significant negative correlation with university governance, highlighting their influence on research performance. Conversely, autonomy and transparency did not show a statistically significant impact. To foster improved governance practices, it is essential for academic leaders in public universities to enhance support for academic freedom and bolster accountability among decision-makers. By prioritizing these aspects, universities can better implement governance principles that promote effective decision-making and ultimately improve research outcomes. This research underscores the need for a more robust governance framework to enhance the research environment in Ethiopian public universities, paving the way for future studies to further explore these dynamics.