A Study on Leadership Models in Higher Education

Abstract

Leadership in higher education has become increasingly complex due to globalization, technological advancements, and evolving policy frameworks. Institutions are expected to adapt quickly while maintaining academic excellence and inclusivity. This paper examines major leadership models in higher education using secondary data drawn from academic literature, books, and policy documents. The study focuses on transformational, distributed, servant, and situational leadership models and evaluates their relevance in modern educational institutions. It also incorporates the Indian context, particularly the implications of the National Education Policy 2020. The findings suggest that no single leadership model is sufficient to address the dynamic challenges faced by higher education institutions. Instead, a hybrid approach that combines flexibility, collaboration, and innovation proves to be the most effective. The paper concludes that leadership in higher education must continuously evolve to meet institutional and societal expectations