Wheels of Efficiency: Examining Key Determinants of Vehicle Fleet Management Efficiency in Tanzanian Public Higher Learning Institutions

This study examines the key factors influencing vehicle fleet management efficiency in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania, specifically the roles of financial resources, regulatory frameworks, and technological use. Guided by the New Public Management (NPM) theory and Resource-Based View (RBV), the research employs a positivist philosophy with a deductive approach. Data was gathered through structured questionnaires from 111 respondents. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was utilised to analyse quantitative data, using SmartPLS 4 to estimate and validate both the measurement and structural models. Results indicate that financial resources and regulatory frameworks significantly improve fleet management efficiency, whereas technological usehas a positive but statistically insignificant effect. The study highlights the critical role of financial and regulatory support in enhancing fleet operations. Although technology holds potential, its current contribution to fleet management is limited, underscoring the need for more advanced technology to unlock its full benefits. Keywords: Financial Resources, Regulatory Frameworks, Technological Use, Vehicle Fleet Management Efficiency