Purpose: This paper aims to assess the influence of 5S pillars on sustainable governance performance in higher education sector. Although the application of 5S is quite prominent in various manufacturing and service industries, its potential impact on the higher education sector remains unexplored to a greater extent. Thus, this work aims to address the potential gap and assess the extent of links between 5S pillars and sustainable governance performance in higher education institutions. Study design/methodology/approach: This study first provides a scoping literature review on 5S application and potential in higher education. Subsequently, critical research gaps are identified for in-depth investigation. Considering the gaps and research objectives, an expert opinion interview protocol is designed to gather perspectives on the link between 5S pillars and sustainable governance in higher education institutions. Findings: Based on a critical review of the literature and expert opinions, this study provides substantial evidence of the link between 5S pillars and sustainable governance in higher education institutions (HEIs). The research findings also resulted in a few propositions on 5S practices and sustainable governance in higher education. Research limitations/implications: The study is exploratory and limited, with expert opinions restricting generalisation ability. Implications of this study are expected to instigate future extensive surveys and case study analyses within and between organisations to prove or disprove the propositions. Practical implications: The outcome of this scoping review and survey data analysis provides researchers and practitioners with a deeper understanding of the influence of 5S pillars on sustainable governance in higher educational institutions. Originality/value: No evidence of earlier research provides a scoping review and assesses the influence of 5S pillars on sustainable governance in higher education.