Assessment of stakeholder engagement in public procurement of works in tertiary institutions towards sustainable environment

Purpose The study investigates stakeholder engagement in public procurement of works within tertiary institutions in Ghana, emphasizing its role in advancing environmental sustainability. It aims to determine the present level of stakeholder engagement, assess stakeholders' understanding of environmental sustainability and explore barriers hindering effective engagement. Design/methodology/approach Structured questionnaires were administered to procurement professionals, stakeholders and institutional representatives. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, one-sample t-test, and mean score ranking to identify patterns, levels and barriers to stakeholder engagement. Findings The results highlight that stakeholder engagement is most prominent at the preparation and planning stage, while later procurement phases, such as tendering and contract implementation, experience reduced participation. Stakeholders demonstrated a generally high understanding of environmental sustainability. However, significant barriers were identified, including difficulty in identifying representatives, lack of clear benefits and financial constraints. These systemic and resource-related challenges limit comprehensive stakeholder involvement across procurement phases. Practical implications The findings emphasize the need for tertiary institutions to adopt comprehensive stakeholder mapping, implement structured engagement frameworks and promote transparency. Tailored training programs and adequate resource allocation are necessary to overcome identified barriers and ensure sustainable procurement practices. Originality/value This study offers new insights into stakeholder engagement in Ghana's tertiary institutions, providing a localized understanding of the interplay between procurement practices and environmental sustainability. It proposes practical strategies to enhance participation and sustainability outcomes, aligning procurement processes with global best practices.