Perceptions of Women in Leadership: An Exploratory Study Among University Students in Pakistan

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore students' perception of female leadership in Pakistan, the factors that affect these perceptions, obstacles to women in leadership positions and the societal and cultural factors which impact on the perception. The findings of the semi-structured in-depth interviews with university students across different disciplines have been analyzed. Results indicated that there is an increasing trend of acceptance of women as leaders, particularly in the field of education and healthcare while other challenges still persist in the areas of politics and business. The key barriers identified to women's advancement in leadership positions were cultural norms, societal expectations and lack of institutional support. It was found that perceptions were significantly affected by gender, socio-economic status and education of the students, with a high level of agreement among the urban students and students from gender-focused disciplines, for the female leadership position. There is a focus on the importance of education, media and societal change as key vehicles to changing attitudes towards women in power. Recommendations referred to mentoring, tackling gender biases, and institutionalizing more opportunities for women in leadership positions.