Sustainable organizational adaptation: Private higher education's strategic response to emerging challenges

This study analyzes organizational development and change approaches based on private higher education institutions (HEIs) responding to COVID-19 encounters. Through case studies and stakeholder interviews, it pinpoints four key factors: organizational adaptation, faculty role redefinition, digital transformation, and sustainability. Remarkably, sustainability emerges as a critical aspect, integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into strategies. These include lowering environmental impact, fostering social equity, and safeguarding economic resilience. The study highlights the importance of understanding HEIs' responses to crises and their effect on organizational development. The understanding of the study can inform policymakers and administrators, enhancing crisis management and organizational strategies for greater resilience. By assimilating sustainability into these strategies, HEIs can align with global agendas like the UN Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to a sustainable future for higher education.