Methodology/Approach: This research uses quantitative methods with a path analysis design. Each value of the effect of exogenous and endogenous variables is tested and analyzed descriptively and path analysis to show the contribution made by each variable studied. Data were collected through a questionnaire with a sample of 221 from a population of 340 populations spread across three state universities in Ambon city, Maluku province, Indonesia.

Originality/Relevance: Organizational culture plays an important role to mediate and contribute to the leadership and organizational commitment to create situations and encourage the participation of all elements in the application of the internal quality assurance system in higher education. 

Main results: The quality of higher education is determined by many factors, but by increasing the role, performance, competence, and leadership style and supported by organizational commitment in an affective, normative, and sustainable manner, the organizational culture becomes one of the frameworks for every university to improve quality and competitiveness in a planned manner. and continuous.

Theoretical/methodological contributions: Universities need leadership that is able to encourage and increase collective organizational commitment and culture to achieve sustainable higher education quality. 

Social/management contributions: The results of this research can be a new breakthrough for each faculty, department, and the department to prepare prospective professional leaders, build solidarity and display a dynamic, creative, and innovative academic culture.