Where are the women? analysing women in leadership positions at institutions of higher learning in South Africa

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20525/ijrbs.v14i3.3840

Keywords:

women in leadership, Higher education, South Africa, gender disparity, systemic barrier

Abstract

This research examines the ongoing under-representation of women in leadership positions within South African higher education institutions (HEIs). Despite a considerable increase in the number of women entering academia, their advancement to top leadership roles remained markedly constrained. This study analysed secondary data from forty scholarly articles published between 2010 and 2023 to investigate the intricate impediments obstructing women's advancement, the wider consequences of these challenges, and viable measures for enhancing gender parity in academic leadership. The results indicated that deep-rooted systemic and cultural obstacles, along with an absence of supportive legislation, sustained gender disparities within institutional hierarchies. Proposals for modification encompassed the establishment of explicit trajectories for women's professional advancement, gender-sensitive leadership training initiatives, mentorship programs to assist aspiring female leaders, and revisions to institutional regulations to foster diversity. The study emphasised the necessity for ongoing evaluation of gender equality policies and enhanced accountability mechanisms to guarantee continued advancement towards equitable representation in leadership.

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Author Biography

Andile Sokani, lecturer Sociology

Dr. Andile is a South African sociologist who is interested in the social and behavioural aspects of
public health, as well as the political economy of gender equity and empowerment. He is
particularly concerned with racial inequality, women's empowerment, and gender equality.
Andile has spent a significant amount of time on the ground in African communities and
townships.

References

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Published

2025-05-03

How to Cite

Sokani, A., & Zulu, H. (2025). Where are the women? analysing women in leadership positions at institutions of higher learning in South Africa. International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147- 4478), 14(3), 73–77. https://doi.org/10.20525/ijrbs.v14i3.3840

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 3 (2025): April

Section

Organizational Culture, Leadership and Human Resources Management

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Copyright (c) 2025 Andile Sokani, Hlengiwe Zulu

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