An evaluation of inclusive leadership approaches

This paper examines the aspects of inclusive leadership approaches for the provision of quality higher education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The major problem informing the study was that leaders did not take into cognizance the importance of inclusive leadership in order to enhance the provision of quality higher education. In order to answer the research questions, the study used qualitative research design and in-depth interviews with Deans and Heads of schools; Academic Leaders, Operations Managers, and Administration staff. The findings reveal that inclusive leadership remains a serious challenge in higher education institutions due to various perceptions of the importance of inclusive leadership approaches with regard to the provision of quality higher education. The study concludes that leaders do not expand their efforts to identify exclusive approaches, practices, and behavior, and educate the workforce to foster inclusion in decision-making, as university becomes more diverse. Based on the findings and conclusion, the study recommends that UKZN leaders should effectively view inclusive leadership as a need to empower individuals.

Autorentext

A Dra. Phumelele Zakwe é Doutora em Administração de Empresas (DBA/PHD) na UKZN Graduate School of Business and Leadership Westville Campus. Trabalha como académica, investigadora e directora interina de serviços profissionais na uKZN: Faculdade de Humanidades, especializada em Direito e Gestão