IMPACT OF CAPACITY BUILDING ON ADVANCING WOMEN'S SELF-EFFICACY AND LEADERSHIP AMBITION IN PUBLIC SECTOR UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

Over the last few years, the female representation in leadership positions has been lacking in developing countries, especially within the public sector universities. The lack of self-efficacy and potential exposure to structured capacity-building programs is one of the important constraints to women's leadership advancement. This research intends to study the effects of capacity-building initiatives, including training and development opportunities, seminars, coaching and mentoring and networking to help improve female self-efficacy and leadership aspiration within academic institutions. The present research is founded on the social cognitive theory and transformational leadership theory. The research utilizes convenience sampling to collect data from public sector universities in Punjab, Pakistan. A structured questionnaire employing a Likert scale is used to assess perceptions of capacity building and leadership ambition. The present study investigates the role of institutional support toward getting the best leadership role, which is specific and helps to gain more confidence, master the skills and has a higher sense of aspiration. The findings will provide practical recommendations to policymakers and university administrators who intend to create gender equity, advance inclusive leadership, and establish viable career pathways in academia.

Keywords: Capacity Building, Self-efficacy, Leadership Ambition, Institutional Support, Professional Development, Gender Equity