Career progression of women in leadership positions in the technical universities challenges and opportunities

Abstract

This study explored the career progression of women occupying leadership positions within the Technical Universities in Ghana. Grounded in the interpretivist research paradigm, the study adopted a hermeneutic phenomenological design within a qualitative framework. Data were collected from twelve female leaders across selected Technical Universities in the Southern part of Ghana using a maximum variation sampling strategy to ensure diversity of perspectives. Semi-structured interviews were employed to elicit in-depth accounts of participants’ lived experiences. The data obtained was analysed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that few women occupy key strategic leadership roles in Technical Universities in the Southern part of Ghana; however, those who have achieved notable progress, adopted varied leadership styles, and actively pursued career growth, breaking traditional norms and motivating future female leaders. Also, women's career advancement in technical universities was driven by teamwork, positive attitudes, mentorship, networking, Organisational support, continuous learning, personal and religious values, as well as cultural awareness. Nonetheless, aspiring women leaders faced obstacles such as Organisational, cultural, and societal barriers, gender discrimination and resistance from peers. Despite these challenges, opportunities existed in the form of paid study leave, external partnerships, technological advancements, diversity and inclusion initiatives. The study also found that even after attaining leadership roles, women continued to experience gender bias, structural challenges, work-life balance difficulties, and cultural pressures. Based on the findings, the study concludes that meaningful progress in gender equity within technical university leadership hinges not merely on opportunity but on the institutionalization of inclusive cultures that recognize and actively dismantle structural and societal barriers. The study recommends that technical universities intensify gender-inclusive policies, mentorship programmes, and Organisational support to sustain and enhance women's leadership progression to overcome persistent structural and cultural barriers.