THE ROLE OF FUND MANAGEMENT IN SUSTAINING PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES: A STRATEGIC IMPERATIVE FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

This article critically examines the financial sustainability challenges facing private universities, particularly in developing countries. While these institutions play a crucial role in expanding access to higher education and filling the gaps left by overstretched public universities, many struggle with staff retention, poor remuneration structures, and weak financial planning. The paper highlights how administrative inefficiencies and the absence of professional fund management hinder long-term institutional growth. It advocates for the strategic engagement of qualified Fund Managers to ensure financial stability, improve academic quality, and promote sustainable development within the private higher education sector.