RELIGION AND LEADERSHIP STYLES IN UGANDAN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: EXPLORING THE IMPACT ON INSTITUTIONAL PERFORMANCE IN UGANDAN UNIVERSITIES

Authors: Judith Arinaitwe, Arthur Ahumuza, Israel Mwebembezi & Syson Amutuhaire

ABSTRACT

Leadership effectiveness is a critical determinant of institutional performance in higher education. In Uganda, existing studies have largely focused on the influence of democratic, transformational, and supportive leadership styles on organisational outcomes. However, limited attention has been given to the role of religious values in shaping administrative behaviour and their implications for institutional performance within university settings. This study examined the relationship between religious values and leadership styles in Ugandan universities and explored how the integration of religious principles into administrative practices influences institutional performance. The study employed a mixed-methods research design grounded in transformational leadership theory and values-based leadership perspectives. Desk review. Data were collected from secondary source research on academic and administrative staff across selected public and private universities in Uganda, previously done using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Quantitative data used were previously analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and contextual insights. The findings revealed that religious values, including integrity, compassion, accountability, servant leadership, justice, and respect for human dignity, significantly influenced leadership behaviour and organisational outcomes. Administrators who integrated these values into decision-making processes demonstrated higher levels of employee commitment, trust, collaboration, and job satisfaction. Furthermore, universities characterised by value-driven leadership reported improved institutional performance, including enhanced service delivery, stronger stakeholder relationships, and greater organisational cohesion. Nevertheless, challenges such as religious diversity, potential value conflicts, and the risk of bias in leadership practices were identified. The study concludes that religious values play a significant role in shaping leadership practices and enhancing institutional performance in Ugandan universities. Integrating inclusive and ethically grounded religious principles into leadership development programmes may strengthen administrative effectiveness and foster sustainable organisational success.

Keywords: Religious values; Leadership styles; Institutional performance; Higher education; University administration; Uganda; values-based leadership.

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