When discussing academic leadership in higher education, it becomes evident that integrity and balance is not only important but arguably the most crucial aspects (at least from my humble opinion) for shaping the future of any institution of higher learning. If I may elaborate further, academic leaders, regardless of their position – whether at the departmental, faculty, or university level – must and did not have choice but to skilfully maintain integrity and equilibrium across a range of dimensions. This is because they are entrusted with multifaceted roles, and there’s a risk of potential bias towards one role over another. These roles of academic leadership encompass a variety of responsibilities, including (based on my limited insight and not limited to) talent management, empowerment, decision-making, strategic planning, networking, and at the same time, able to pursuit of their own academic endeavours.
First, in term of talent management, academic leader shall provide rooms and opportunity to growth, while providing mentorship and recognising potential of both staff as well as the department / faculty / university. Secondly, academic leaders should empower individuals within their circle, to foster sense of commitment and belonging to their respective department, faculty, or university. Third, academic leaders should ensure that any decision being made are guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and for the greater good of the institution. Fourth, any academic leaders regardless of scale should be able to have the skill of strategic planning, that aligned with the institution’s aims, mission and vision. Fifth, academic leaders must build network and partnerships that reflect their institution’s values, promoting research opportunities, student experiences, and community engagement that align with ethical principles. Finally, with these aspects, each leader must ensure a balance between leadership and academic responsibilities for their own good, as they are still, above all, an academician.
With that, I believe that academic leader particularly in higher institution need to strive to balance on how these aspects interplay, while maintaining the importance of ethical / integrity while achieving balance across these various dimensions.