The alignment of corporate real estate strategy with corporate strategy: experiences from selected higher education institutions in Ghana

Purpose The study aims to examine the relationship between corporate real estate (CRE) strategy and corporate strategy (CS) in selected universities in Ghana. It focused on the availability, usage, alignment and effects of CRE strategy on CS in universities. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a qualitative research design, using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Interviews were used to collect data from estate departments of selected Ghanaian higher education institutions (HEIs) in Kumasi. Findings All the selected HEIs purported to have CRE strategies, but they lacked a holistic approach. They were essentially just maintenance policies developed based on their CSs to support the institutions in their service delivery. All CRE management decisions were aligned with the CRE strategy. Originality/value The study highlights the importance of aligning CRE strategies with CSs in HEIs in developing countries to enhance academic environments.