WOMEN AND THE MANAGEMENT OF TERTIARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN GHANA: A CASE STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY FOR DEVELOPMENT STUDIES

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to investigate and offer an understanding of the involvement of women in the management of tertiary education institution with specific reference to the University for Development Studies. This study adopted both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. An interview guide was prepared and sent across the four campuses and centers: Wa, Nyankpala, Navrongo, Tamale and Centre for Continuing Education and Interdisciplinary Research (CCEIR), Graduate School and Central Administration of the University. The original quantitative data was transferred unto an SPSS spreadsheet for analysis whiles the qualitative date from the interviews conducted was content analyzed. The study revealed that the 80 sampled participants had attained varied degrees of education. Out of the total, 43 hold Master's degrees with a research base; this is a major requirement for recruitment. Also, 33 hold Doctorate degree which is a major requirement for a senior management position, especially for the academic category, of the UDS. There were also, 4 professors and 4 others who held professional degrees from other fields. The educational levels of the sampled population showed that men outnumbered women at all levels. Again, the study concerned itself with finding out the factors that shape and define entry into management positions by women in the UDS. It was found that, relevant qualification, number of publications, work experience in the University system, hard work and long service were all considered for entry into management positions. However, the survey revealed that majority of the women within the sampled participants did not meet many of these criteria. This had contributed to their low participation in the management system of the UDS. Further, the findings revealed that women in management encounter challenges among which include socio-cultural perceptions of women, conflicting family and work responsibilities, male alliances and networks, stress involved in the work among others. As a result of the above, the study has made a number of recommendations which when carefully implemented will improve the involvement of women and the management of tertiary education institutions in Ghana.