This paper is the result of research was aimed to understand the reality of the partnership implemented in the field of education, namely education and training for teachers and aspiring principals, and principals to gain competence and increasing professionalization of the school-based management. The study used qualitative methodology with a case study analysis approach. Study location in Makassar City and Gowa Regencies. Data collection techniques used were documentation, interviews, and observations. Data sources were Program Study Education Administration FIP of UNM, and partnership implementers on Diknas Gowa Regencies Other data sources included some internal and external parties involved in the partnership as stakeholders. Proposition used in this study was: “Partnership in higher education will have a good quality if built using bottom-up approach based on problem roots, obtained support from government, and implemented in using an appropriate model as well as an intensive relationship between all parties in the partnership". The study results are as the following (1) Implementation of LPTK partnership characteristics: all characteristics have been implemented in the area of education particularly in principal’s program qualification; (2) Models applied in partnership were collaborative models, they were not in fully accordance with collaborative partnership model in the area of education. In addition, partnerships implementers in the education program area were not familiar with the models; (3) Utilization of resources (people, facilities, and funds) in the implementation of partnership model have partially been fulfilled; (4) albeit not optimum, the partnership model has supported and provided positive contributions to the quality of education, processes and products; and finally (5) Factors that support and hinder partnership implementation were economic, social, and political aspects
