The Contribution of Administrative and Teaching Staff to Ethical Leadership in Selected Christian Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya
Date
2024
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Publisher
Tangaza University
Abstract
This study explored the contribution of administrative and teaching staff in promoting ethical leadership within Christian universities in Nairobi County, Kenya. It focuses on three main objectives: first, to examine how staff modeling behaviors can lay the groundwork for ethical leadership; second, to identify the challenges these staff members encounter in their efforts to practice ethical leadership; and third, to propose strategies for enhancing ethical leadership among them. The research describes significant challenges, such as malpractices and mismanagement, which hinder effective learning and ethical development within these institutions. It underscores the urgent need for strong ethical leadership to foster a supportive environment conducive to learning and moral growth. While there is considerable literature on ethical leadership across different organizations, there is a significant gap in studies examining the roles of administrative and teaching staff in contributing to ethical leadership. To achieve its objectives, the study utilized a qualitative descriptive research design, conducting in-depth interviews with thirty participants, fifteen from administrative roles and fifteen from faculty, selected through purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was employed to extract key themes related to ethical leadership. Findings reveal that promoting integrity, justice, and empowerment, along with integrating religious values into leadership practices, are crucial for enhancing ethical leadership. However, the study also highlights several challenges faced by staff, including the difficulty of balancing personal faith with professional responsibilities, navigating complex institutional dynamics, and ensuring fairness in decision-making processes. To effectively tackle these challenges and strengthen ethical leadership among staff, the study recommends revising institutional policies, enhancing empowerment initiatives, and fostering a culture of justice and fairness within university settings. These actions are essential for cultivating a robust ethical leadership culture in Christian universities in Nairobi.