The unseen in the glass ceilings: examining women’s career advancement in higher education institutions through a multi-level institutional lens

Abstract

As women’s presence in higher education grows, their limited representation in academic leadership roles remains a critical concern. This study investigates the complex institutional barriers hindering women’s advancement into leadership positions. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 37 women in academia, our analysis reveals multifaceted challenges rooted in institutional, organisational, and individual factors. Institutionally, cultural and societal norms, including those influenced by religious traditions, profoundly influence gender dynamics within specific contexts. Organizational factors, such as a predominantly male workforce and entrenched practices, pose significant obstacles to women’s career progression in academic institutions. At a personal level, we introduce the concept of internalisation of subjugation, which captures women academics’ tendency to adopt more masculine practices, echoing observations from traditional leadership models. This research offers valuable insights into the nuanced barriers constraining women’s path to academic leadership. A comprehensive understanding of these challenges is essential for developing targeted strategies and policies to promote gender equality and inclusivity in higher education institutions.