Transformation of Organizational Culture in Higher Education: A Global Comparative Study from an Organizational Psychology Perspective

Purpose: This study aims to examine how organizational culture influences faculty commitment, institutional adaptation, innovation practices, and digital readiness in higher education institutions (HEIs) across multiple countries. The research further seeks to identify cross-national patterns in cultural transformation and their implications for graduate competencies and employability. Design/methodology/approach: A systematic literature review and global comparative analysis were conducted using peer-reviewed publications from 2021–2026, focusing on organizational culture, faculty commitment, institutional adaptation, innovation, and digital transformation in HEIs. Data were synthesized using thematic and cross-case comparative methods, and tabular and graphical mappings were employed to illustrate patterns of cultural transformation, innovation practices, and graduate readiness. Findings: The study identifies four major findings: (1) HEIs are transitioning from stability-oriented, hierarchical cultures toward adaptive and innovation-focused cultures; (2) faculty commitment is enhanced through participative governance, psychological safety, and professional development; (3) institutions demonstrate varying adaptation and innovation strategies contingent on regional and contextual factors; and (4) digital readiness significantly mediates the development of graduate competencies. Tables and figures provide comparative insights across countries, highlighting both convergent and divergent patterns in culture transformation and institutional performance. Originality/value: This research contributes a holistic, cross-national framework linking organizational culture, innovation, and digital readiness to institutional effectiveness and graduate employability. It extends prior literature by integrating psychological and technological dimensions of cultural transformation, offering actionable insights for HEI leaders, policymakers, and educators seeking to cultivate adaptive, inclusive, and digitally competent learning environments