Leadership Competence and University Administration: Examining Career Development in Africa’s Faith-based Institutions

Faith-based universities in Africa play a pivotal role in higher education by integrating academic excellence with ethical and moral leadership. However, these institutions face governance challenges, primarily due to gaps in leadership competence and career development. This study examines the impact of structured career development—comprising leadership training, mentorship, and succession planning—on governance effectiveness in faith-based universities. Using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, the research identifies best practices, challenges, and policy recommendations for strengthening leadership development. The findings reveal that universities with structured career development programs demonstrate stronger governance frameworks, improved decision-making, and sustainable institutional growth. Conversely, institutions lacking leadership training face administrative inefficiencies, governance instability, and strategic misalignment. The study underscores the need for policy interventions to institutionalize career development, enhance mentorship programs, and implement structured succession planning. Strengthening leadership pipelines through targeted training will ensure faith-based universities fulfill their educational and ethical missions while remaining competitive in the evolving higher education landscape.