Bibliometric Analysis of Women's Leadership in African Universities During Disruptive Times

Purpose: The higher education landscape across Africa has experienced significant disruptions in recent years due to technological advancements, globalisation, socio-political changes, and the global pandemic. Amidst these changes, an increasing number of women have taken on leadership roles in universities, shaping the direction of these institutions. This bibliometric study aims to quantitatively analyse the research output and impact of scholarly works focusing on women leading African universities during this era of disruption. Design/Methodology/Approach: The article examines 1917 publications using rigorous bibliometric techniques to analyse relevant publications indexed in major academic databases from 2010 to 2023. Key bibliometric indicators, including publication trends, influential authors, citation patterns, and thematic clusters, were analysed to reveal this research domain's current state and evolution. Research Limitation: This review's drawback is the intrinsic characteristic of the bibliometric analysis, which emphasises quantitative metrics and may not completely encompass the profound qualitative understanding of the influence of scholarly works centred on women leading African institutions during this period of upheaval. Findings: The results indicate a growing focus on women leading African universities during disruption. They highlight key contributors, provide a comprehensive overview of central themes and collaborative patterns, and identify areas where further research is needed. Practical Implications: By shedding light on the contributions of women leaders in guiding African universities through challenging times, this study aims to inform policies and practices that promote inclusive and equitable leadership in higher education institutions. Social Implications: This research can underline the broader social and economic benefits of gender diversity in leadership. It can demonstrate how inclusive leadership practices contribute to more robust and resilient educational systems, which are essential for the socio-economic development of African countries. Originality and Value: The findings will contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable development goals, particularly quality education and gender equality.