Reimagining Governance: Integrating Public Policy and Public Administration in Higher Education for Global Challenges

Public administration and policy are vital to addressing the digital revolution, globalization, and society's goals for quality and equity in higher education. This research theoretically examines how these sectors affect global higher education policy and practices. It emphasizes governance and coordination, digital and social innovations, and evidence-based policymaking to better describe public policy, administration, and higher education. Complex higher education governance requires multilevel coordination to meet national, international, and local laws. Effective governance frameworks align policies and satisfy stakeholders. Multi-level governance frameworks like agencification and policy integration are vital for institutional accountability and higher education quality. The digital era has changed rule implementation and communication. Digital platforms and social media are essential for policy socialization, increasing stakeholder engagement and public literacy. The platforms allow companies to communicate with a broader audience, promote transparency, and stimulate active decision-making. Thus, digital innovation is crucial to policy dissemination and engagement, not merely a complement to public administration. Effective higher education administration requires evidence-based policymaking. This article utilizes empirical research and data-driven insights to adapt policy to shifting situations and public needs. Implementing evidence-based concepts with considerable capacity development is crucial to overcome institutional resistance to change and limited access to trustworthy data, especially in situations with limited resources. Commercialization in higher education puts pressure on institutions to balance money and academic integrity, which is an issue. The contradiction between traditional educational goals and market-driven imperatives raises questions about accountability and higher education's role in society. Addressing these concerns requires fair and quality public policies without sacrificing financial sustainability. History and culture also affect higher education regulations. Political regimes, socioeconomic upheavals, and cultural legacies shape higher education institutions and policies worldwide. These case studies reveal what helps or hinders policy reform and execution. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of public administration, policy, and higher education. In a rapidly changing environment, the framework integrates evidence-based approaches, digital and social innovations, and governance to manage higher education. It stresses the need for stakeholders, administrators, and lawmakers working together to address problems and ensure higher education institutions' sustainability and inclusivity. Future research should examine how commercialization, governance changes, and the digital revolution affect higher education quality and equity across time. Creative and adaptable public administration techniques may help higher education institutions adapt to global trends and improve knowledge and society.