PATHWAYS TO POWER: HOW WOMEN LEADERS OVERCOME INSTITUTIONAL OBSTACLES IN HIGHER EDUCATION

The underrepresentation of women in senior leadership positions within Indian higher education presents a significant paradox. While India maintains the worlds third-largest higher education system with 1,074 universities and women demonstrating strong academic achievements, their presence in top administrative roles remains minimal. This study analyses the disconnect between womens academic success, evidenced by 42% of doctoral degrees being awarded to female candidates, and their limited representation in leadership, where they constitute only 6.67% of senior academic leaders. Through the Analysis of current literature and institutional data, the research identifies critical barriers including inadequate mentoring systems, persistent pipeline problems, limited networking opportunities, and entrenched gender stereotypes. Analysis of Central Universities reveals particularly stark disparities, with women occupying merely 6.7% of Vice-Chancellor positions, 20% of Dean Positions, and 28% of Department Head roles. The study argues that increasing womens representation in educational leadership is essential not only for achieving gender parity but also for leveraging their unique leadership qualities, including relationship-based approaches and empathetic decision-making. These findings underscore the urgent need for institutional reforms and targeted initiatives to bridge the gender leadership gap in Indian higher education, ultimately fostering more inclusive and effective educational institutions.