Empirical Comparison of Critical Success Factors for the Adoption of Public Private Partnersthips Approach Among Universities in Uganda and South Africa

Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly used to address infrastructure financing gaps in higher education, particularly in developing countries. However, their successful adoption depends on the presence of critical success factors (CSFs) that balance public and private sector interests while safeguarding the needs of beneficiaries. This study examines the CSFs influencing PPP adoption in universities in Uganda and South Africa. A qualitative research design was employed using key informant interviews and focus group discussions with PPP stakeholders from universities, regulatory bodies, government agencies, private sector actors, and students. Data was analyzed using thematic and comparative analysis. The findings reveal that affordability is the most critical CSF, followed by transparency and openness, price regulation, and stakeholder involvement. Other important factors include consideration of private sector interests, a conducive investment climate, demonstration of successful PPP projects, and effective information sharing. The study highlights that, unlike traditional infrastructure sectors, PPP success in universities strongly depends on beneficiary-centered considerations, particularly student affordability and participation. The study contributes to PPP literature by extending CSF analysis to the higher education sector and provides practical guidance for policymakers and university administrators to design affordable, transparent, and socially acceptable PPP arrangements.