Academic Leadership in Higher Education

Alif Ridzuan bin Khairuddin (16784)

There are several insights that I have identified in academic leadership in higher education. The main one is that it plays a crucial role in shaping the direction, quality, and effectiveness of higher education institutions. No matter what roles we play, whether it’s a dean, deputy dean, head of research alliance or others top management positions, these are responsible for guiding the higher education institutions toward its mission and goals.

Based on what I have learned, in my opinions, there are four traits that is crucial and essential to be a good academic leader. The traits are visionary, knowledgeable, empathy and committed.

Visionary: A good academic leaders possessed a distinct vision and a strong dedication to the goals of the higher education institutions. They need to always be aware of how crucial it is to match to their leadership initiatives with the objectives of the higher education institutions.

Knowledgeable: They also need to be knowledgeable on what they are doing and possessed academic excellence. This is to fostering clear instruction in many aspects for subordinates better understanding. They also ought to support a culture of continual improvement and foster creative among colleagues and subordinates.

Empathy: This is one of the most crucial insights I discovered that a good leader should possessed. A good leader with empathy possesses a unique and powerful set of qualities that enable them to connect with and inspire those they lead. Thus, a good academic leader possesses the ability to understand and share the feelings and perspectives of their subordinates.

Committed: In this, traits, a good academic leader needs to be committed by demonstrating unwavering dedication and loyalty to their role, responsibilities, subordinates, higher education institutions, and the goals they aim to achieve. Commitment sets an example for others, fosters trust, and drives success.

In conclusion, an effective academic leadership in higher education requires a combination of strategic thinking, interpersonal skills, and a deep commitment to the institution’s mission and values. Thus, I believe that an effective academic leader is required to have a good adaptability and a strong dedication in advancing the educational mission of the higher education institution.