Examining Internal Factors Impacting Higher Education Institutions Readiness for Implementing Public–private Partnerships to Foster a Knowledge Economy in Post-conflict Somalia

There is a prevailing consensus within literature that higher education plays a pivotal role in national reconstruction and development. As the primary custodians of knowledge, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) assume a critical responsibility in producing highly skilled graduates, generating knowledge that is pertinent to economic growth and societal progress, comprehending the major challenges confronting our communities, and proposing viable solutions. However, HEIs in post-conflict Somalia face limited resources, infrastructure, and competency challenges. Thus, there is a growing demand for change within the higher education sector. This research investigates the internal factors affecting the readiness of HEIs in Somalia for Public–Private Partnership (PPP) in implementing a national strategy using the Theory of Organizational Readiness for Change. The research utilizes a questionnaire survey to gather data from high-level administrators of HEIs in Somalia. Additionally, correlation analysis and regression analysis were used to examine the factors affecting readiness to implement national strategies through PPP. All statistical analyses were performed using Jamovi (version 2.3.28). The findings showed a consensus among respondents on the necessity of PPPs and government recognition of HEIs' importance. The findings from a survey reveals that institutional capacity, human resources, and capacity infrastructure are significantly correlated with successful PPP implementation. However, institutional barriers such as unreliable risk-sharing mechanisms, differing organizational cultures, and a lack of supportive institutional environments hinder progress. The research highlights a strong consensus among stakeholders regarding the vital role of PPPs for HEIs in securing government support and fostering a knowledge-based economy. This research contributes to the understanding of PPPs in HEIs within post-conflict contexts and offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to leverage PPPs for educational development and economic growth. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2024.