Abstract: This mixed methods study examines obstacles to funding higher education in selected Zambian public universities—Mulungushi University, Copperbelt University, and Mukuba University. Through questionnaires (n = 150 academic, administrative, and finance staff), semi structured interviews with university leaders and stakeholders (n = 18), observations, and document review, the study identifies principal constraints: inadequate and delayed government allocations, limited diversification of revenue (low private sector engagement, weak internal income generation), rising operational costs, governance and financial management weaknesses, and infrastructural deficits.