Determinants of operational risk management in Moroccan public universities

Author : Sarra Gazoulit, Pr. Khadija Oubal

Abstract : Operational risk management has become a major challenge in supporting the ongoing strategic transformations facing universities. Its importance lies in controlling critical operational risks inherent in university activities, which may threaten institutional functioning and hinder the achievement of both operational and strategic objectives. In this context, the present study aims to identify the factors explaining the adoption of an Operational Risk Management System (ORMS) within Moroccan Public Universities (MPUs). The research is based on a flexible methodological approach combining a review of the literature, exploratory fieldwork, and a quantitative survey conducted among 120 administrative managers in MPUs, with a response rate of 46%. The literature review identified several dimensions likely to explain the adoption of ORMS. These dimensions were empirically validated through an exploratory study conducted with twelve university managers in order to assess their reliability and relevance. The results of this phase were subsequently subjected to confirmatory analysis, which allowed for the consolidation of the research model. The findings reveal that the adoption of ORMS within MPUs is mainly determined by the risk management process (PGRO), the university council (CUN), debt (ENDT), profitability (RENT), and good governance (BGOV).

Keywords : Operational Risk Management, Moroccan Public Universities, Good Governance, Risk Management Process, University Administration

Conference Name : International Conference on Change Management and Organizational Transformation (ICCMAOT-26)

Conference Place : Casablanca, Morocco

Conference Date : 22nd May 2026