Public-Private Partnerships in Chinese Education: Leadership and Management Implications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53797/ujssh.v4i2.8.2025Keywords:
Public-Private Partnerships, Educational Leadership, Management Strategies, China, Perceived EffectivenessAbstract
This quantitative study investigates the critical roles of leadership and management in enhancing the perceived effectiveness of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in the Chinese education sector. Driven by the increasing reliance on PPPs to address educational demands and resource constraints, the research addresses a significant gap in understanding the specific leadership and management dynamics within these hybrid organizations in China's unique socio-political context. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 450 leaders and managers actively involved in educational PPPs across various levels (K-12, vocational, higher education) and partner types (public and private sector) in mainland China. Multiple regression analysis revealed that Transformational Leadership (β=0.25,p<0.001), Strategic Leadership (β=0.14,p=0.003), Quality Assurance Management (β=0.13,p=0.003), Risk Management (β=0.08,p=0.020), and Stakeholder Engagement Management (β=0.23,p<0.001) are all statistically significant positive predictors of perceived PPP effectiveness. Notably, Transformational Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement Management emerged as the strongest predictors, underscoring the importance of visionary leadership and collaborative approaches. Furthermore, independent samples t-tests and one-way ANOVA indicated significant differences in perceived effectiveness based on partner type (private sector showing higher perceptions) and educational level (vocational education PPPs perceived as most effective). These findings highlight that the success of educational PPPs in China critically hinges on effective, collaborative leadership and robust management strategies, rather than solely on their structural formation. The study offers practical implications for policymakers and practitioners, emphasizing targeted leadership development and tailored management approaches for sustainable educational partnerships.
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