Aleck Mlambo’s research publication highlights gender and leadership perceptions in Zimbabwean local authorities.
Atlantic International University is pleased to highlight a scholarly contribution by its student, Aleck Mlambo, titled “Exploring the Perceptions of Employees on the Impact of Gender in Leadership Positions: An Assessment of Employees in Local Authorities in Zimbabwe.” The article has been published in the European Journal of Applied Sciences (Vol. 12, Issue 5, pp. 250–261).
This research focuses on a significant but inadequately explored area of leadership studies—the influence of gender on the perception of effective leadership. Although there have been many scholarly examinations of leadership as a field of study, the link between leadership and gender still needs further empirical analysis, especially within the public sector organizations of developing nations.
In order to ensure that the research covers all aspects effectively, a mixed methodology will be used in the study. The data for the study were collected using a structured questionnaire carried out on 50 selected participants from a target population of 100 participants in Zimbabwean local authorities. SPSS was used in analyzing the results in the form of graphs, pie charts, and tables.
The study focuses on various dimensions such as leadership styles, communication, emotional intelligence, employee performance, and gender dimensions of leadership.
The results of this research reveal that:
- There is no substantial disparity between males and females in terms of leadership ability or efficiency.
- Leadership efficacy is not necessarily gender specific.
- There is no gender distinction in emotional intelligence either.
Nevertheless, there are still some perceptions that are prevalent which lead to instances of some male workers underestimating women in leadership roles. The findings of the study can further add to the discussion in the academe, since it emphasizes the idea that effective leadership is not limited by gender.
On a practical level, the study can help guide policies, organizations, and developmental contributors in creating more gender-sensitive leadership models.
The full article is accessible through the European Journal of Applied Sciences at the following link: https://journals.scholarpublishing.org/index.php/AIVP/article/view/17638
