Individual Strategies for the Advancement of Women in Higher Education Leadership

Principal Investigator: Dr. Nnedinma Umeokafor, University of Greenwich

Co-Investigators: Professor Chioma Sylvia Okoro & Professor Kariena Strydom

Funder: British Academy

Why This Project Matters

Despite numerous programmes aimed at addressing gender inequality in higher education, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles. While institutional and policy-level interventions are important, research shows that the most effective advancement strategies combine individual, institutional, state, and situational approaches. Yet, the specific ways these strategies interact—and how technology can amplify their impact—are not well understood.

This project seeks to fill that gap by developing a framework of effective individual strategies to improve gender equality and women’s progression into leadership positions in higher education.

What We Aim to Do

Our study focuses on female academics in South Africa, a context where gender disparities in leadership remain significant. Through focus group discussions (FGDs) and a questionnaire survey, we will explore:

• What individual strategies women use to navigate barriers to leadership.

• How these strategies interact with institutional and societal factors.

• The role of technology in enabling or accelerating change.

Innovative Approach

The project combines qualitative and quantitative methods:

• Thematic Analysis of FGDs to uncover nuanced experiences.

• Correlation Analysis to identify relationships between strategies and outcomes.

• Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Analysis to model complex interactions and predict effective pathways for advancement.

One of the most exciting outputs will be a WhatsApp Chatbot, designed to share insights and provide practical guidance to women aspiring to leadership roles.

Knowledge Mobilisation

We believe research should drive real-world impact. Our dissemination plan includes:

• A stakeholder engagement and capacity development workshop to share findings and co-create solutions.

• Publication in leading journals and coverage in news platforms to reach both academic and public audiences.

Why Technology Matters

Technology is not just a tool—it’s a catalyst for change. By leveraging mobile platforms, we aim to make knowledge accessible and actionable, ensuring that strategies for advancement reach women where they are.

This project is a step toward transforming leadership landscapes in higher education and creating pathways for women to thrive.