Integrating Education Management with Public Administration: A Framework for Policy Alignment and Institutional Efficiency

Abstract

Introduction: The transition to Knowledge-based Economies (KBE) has created a separation between Education Management (EM) and Public Administration (PA) through “Governance Silos” that impede National Development. Educational institutions in Emerging Economies (China and Malaysia) are increasingly subject to fiscal accountability and operational efficiency (EIF) requirements compared to other sectors. This research contributes to the intersection of these two disciplines and identifies that Institutional Efficiency (IE) - the ability of an institution to utilize resources effectively and efficiently to achieve pedagogical outcomes/goals - is dependent on the alignment of Educational Pedagogy/Goal with National Administration Frameworks. Objective: The primary objective of this systematic review is to create a theoretical framework for Policy Alignment within the Education and Public Service sectors. Method: A systematic review of the literature and national/ state government policy documents published between 2015 and 2026 was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). 45 Peer-Reviewed Articles and Government Reports from Scopus, Web of Science, and CNKI were synthesized using thematic analysis, examining the variables of fiscal synchronization, digital interoperability, and administrative autonomy in the Asian context. Conclusion: The objectives of the Chinese educational system are determined from the top down, and the objective of the Malaysian educational system is to develop autonomy for each of its schools within a national framework. Therefore, the conclusion drawn in this research is that institutional efficiency can be maximized if the Ministry of Education and the Commission of Public Service share a common data and funding system. Thus, as future reforms take place, attention must be given to incorporating Digital Interoperability and resolving all remaining bureaucratic barriers between government policy and its implementation at the classroom level.