Risk Assessment of Public–Private Partnership Model for Developing Student Housing in Higher-Education Institutions

The public-private partnership (PPP) model for student housing development remains underutilized in India’s education sector. Student housing has emerged as an attractive investment for the private sector in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States of America. India also holds the potential to establish student housing as a distinct real estate category within its higher educational institutions (HEIs). Many HEIs have already begun exploring the PPP model for infrastructure development. This study assesses the risk factors of implementing the PPP model for developing student housing projects across Indian HEIs. Data for risk assessment were collected through a questionnaire survey involving 164 respondents from HEIs and private developers. An artificial neural network (ANN) model with a 13-14-1 configuration was developed to predict risk severity. The model demonstrated high predictive accuracy, with statistical parameters indicating robust performance. A sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the relative significance of each risk factor using normalized sensitivity weights. The lack of predevelopment studies emerged as the most critical factor, followed by stable and adequate social support from students. The findings of this study provide practical insights for government agencies and private developers in framing a policy framework and mitigating risks to enable the successful implementation of PPP-based student housing projects.