The Impact of Governance on Private Education

Private providers lead the way in today's ever-changing education landscape, driving innovation and shaping the future through teaching and skill-building.

But do they need governance to succeed? The answer is a resounding yes! During our recent board meeting, a tradition we've upheld since our founding in 2008, we delved into the topic of governance framework, and our chairman, Assoc. Prof. Chandana Hewege, highlighted its critical role, noting its importance from the very beginning.

As the CEO, I recognised the importance of establishing a strong foundation from the outset. For a growing institute like HCI, transitioning to a governance-focused approach required a shift in mindset and culture. Many expressed doubts about the necessity of implementing a formalised approach, particularly with regard to the inclusion of various subcommittees.

However, despite initial doubts, our board's diverse expertise and collective commitment to excellence proved invaluable. ?With expansion came increased complexity, but our governance board has provided clarity and direction at every turn. There were more students to take care of, more staff to manage, and more regulations to follow. But each time, governance helped the institute know what to do and where to go next.

The governance of HCI is underpinned by the values of honesty, openness, and trust. These values have always been my focus as CEO, fostering open communication and responsible decision-making. Openness builds trust, while honesty upholds integrity, shaping our institute's commitment to excellence.

Academic Exploration of Governance:

This commitment to governance has been further reinforced by my personal pursuit of a PhD at Swinburne University, focusing on governance in private educational institutions. As I near the completion of my doctoral studies, I am continually inspired by the transformative potential of effective governance in guiding institutes like ours toward sustained success.

Today, as we reflect on our institute's journey, one thing is abundantly clear: governance isn't a luxury reserved for large organisations; it's a necessity for all institutes seeking to make a meaningful impact on society.? As CEO, I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I am confident that with governance as our guiding principle, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of our students and communities.