Creating an enabling environment in private higher education in Oman

• Main Author: Al Balushi, Ali Hamdan
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: University of Southampton 2017

This research undertakes a critical evaluation and analysis of the leadership style at higher education institutions in Oman and determines whether the direction it takes is in strict conformity with creating an enabling environment there. To address this, Saxena’s framework on creating an enabling environment in higher education is used as a foundation, along with the theoretical concepts of transformational leadership to explore the role of heads of higher education institutions in creating an enabling environment. Hence, the major question examined in this thesis is: “To what extent do presidents and deans create an enabling environment and act as transformational leaders at private higher education institutions in Oman?” The research employed a mixed method design in which data were collected through a combination of semi-structured interviews with presidents, deans, officials, and recent graduates. A survey of lecturers, full-time employees, and students was also undertaken to seek their views. The target sample in the main research was drawn from six private universities and colleges and selected public Ministries. In line with the theoretical structure, the findings of the research show the higher education environment in Oman to be an area of concern. The findings highlight four gaps, which also fall in line with the four components introduced by Saxena. The first gap is between the higher education institutions and industry; the second gap relates to empowerment among staff, management, governance and authorities; the third gap is between physical environment and facilities; and the fourth gap is between research and teaching. The findings recommend a leadership framework to provide necessary guidelines for creating an enabling environment. The research opens avenues for upcoming researchers who would add more to the previously achieved goals so that the sustenance offered by lifelong learning may also be perpetuated in the years to come.