Application of Mintzberg's managerial roles by academic leaders at higher education institutions in South Africa : the case of North-West University

Abstract

Academic leaders at higher education institutions in South Africa are applying various management principles to be effective in performing their duties as managers. It is imperative for these academic leaders to apply effective management skills such as Mintzberg's managerial strategies that will ensure constant improvement. The aim of this study was to explore the extent to which academic leaders at the North-West University apply Mintzberg's managerial roles in executing their functions as leaders within their institution. A quantitative approach was adapted and a non-probability sampling technique was used to select the 109 participants who were administered questionnaires and 91 were fully completed, giving a response rate of 83.49%. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23, applying the following techniques : descriptive statistics, factor analysis and cross tabulations. Mintzberg's managerial roles were found to be important to all academic leaders at higher education institutions. The results of the study revealed that academic leaders at North-West University are applying all the three Mintzberg's managerial roles. It is recommended that academic leaders of higher education institutions should endeavour to apply Mintzberg's managerial roles because it is an effective management model that can improve their performance. Keywords: Academic leaders, Higher education, Institution, Managerial roles, Mintzberg