Enablers to Women Career Advancement in Academics at Management Positions in Pakistani Universities

Abstract

Despite a significant gap in the number of female students in higher educational institutions, a corresponding growth in the representation of women in senior management positions within Pakistani universities has not been observed. This study was shaped to investigate the enablers influencing the professional development of women academics at the management level in Pakistan. Using semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions and a probing strategy, responses to these inquiries were sought from 10 purposively selected female and male senior management position holders across public sector universities in Islamabad. Thematic analysis, employing an inductive approach, was used, and member checks were applied to ensure the reliability of the drawn themes. Each theme was thoroughly explored, and those emerging from a smaller subset of women were categorized separately as unique themes. The study reveals that while there is a growing number of female students in higher education institutions, a subsequent increase in the representation of women in senior management roles has not been observed. Family support, motivation, equal opportunities, government initiatives, supportive organizational culture, and training emerge as critical enablers for women's career advancement. Recommendations address the identified gaps, including implementing targeted support programs, promoting inclusive organizational cultures, and advocating for government support and policies to advance gender equality in academia. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women academics in Pakistan and provide insights into potential strategies for promoting gender equality and supporting women's career progression in senior management positions within universities.