Ethical Leadership in Institutions of Higher Education
Abstract:A study was conducted on ethical leadership in institutions of higher education. Objectives of the study were: (i).
Illustrate theories of ethical leadership in higher education institutions; (ii) Determine importance of ethical
leadership in higher education institutions; and (iii) Determine challenges facing ethical leadership in institutions of
higher learning. The total number of written texts sampled was 32. The researcher employed non-probability
sampling. The type employed was online convenience sampling using web scraping. The interpretivism
philosophical assumption led this investigation, and the qualitative approach was used. Case study was employed
as a design and content analysis as a data analysis tool. The study found out that ethical leadership is essential in
higher education institutions because it establishes a solid ethical foundation, fosters an environment of integrity,
and contributes to the institutions' long-term success and viability. It acts as a model for all stakeholders, motivating
them to follow ethical concepts and values in their academic pursuits and institutional responsibilities. The
challenges of ethical leadership in higher education institutions range from fiscal limits to issues about diversity,
governance, and technology. It is vital for higher education institutions to address these concerns in order to
maintain their integrity and efficiency. Recommendations included but were not limited to the following: (i)Ethical
leaders should model the behaviour they expect from their staff and students. Show integrity, honesty, and justice
in your acts and decisions; (ii) Establish Clear Ethical Standards: Develop an ethical code or set of fundamental ideas
for your educational community. Ensure that these expectations are communicated to all stakeholders, including
staff, students, parents, and the general public;(iii). Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment in
which faculty and students can express concerns and report unethical behaviour. Encourage transparency and
active listening while responding to remarks; and (iv). Ethical Decision-Making Training: Provide leaders and
personnel with ethical decision-making training and professional development opportunities. Use case studies and
real-life occurrences to help in discussions about ethical quandaries.
Download File [ 0.21 MB ]