JJEM: Special Edition 3 (January 2025)
JJEM: Special Edition 3 (January 2025)
2025-01-20
Women in Decision Making: Exploring Strategies for Effective Management in Higher Education
Dr. Manish Kumar Agarwal
This research paper explores the critical role of women in decision-making positions at higher education institutions and evaluates strategies that foster effective management practices. It aims to understand the impact of gender diversity on leadership dynamics and institutional performance. The study investigates the various challenges that women face when striving for leadership roles, including gender bias, work-life balance issues and limited access to mentorship. It also assesses the effectiveness of existing strategies, such as leadership development programs, policy interventions, and organizational support systems, in empowering women and promoting their active participation in decision-making processes. The research employs a mixed-method approach, including qualitative data from interviews and case studies with quantitative data from surveys across several higher education institutions. The analysis highlights a significant positive correlation between the presence of women in leadership roles and the overall effectiveness and inclusivity of institutional management. Findings shows that organizations with higher gender diversity in decision-making positions exhibit improved strategic planning, more innovative problem-solving, and better alignment with equity and inclusivity goals. The paper concludes by outlining best practices and recommendations for higher education institutions of India to enhance women's representation in leadership, including adopting flexible work policies, implementing mentorship and sponsorship programs, and establishing gender equality frameworks. This study focuses to the ongoing discourse on gender equity in higher education leadership and provides actionable insights for bring up a more inclusive and effective management structure.
Women in leadership, decision-making, higher education management, gender equality, management strategies.