Challenges faced by women to pursue leadership roles in colleges under the Royal University of Bhutan.

This study investigates the challenges faced by women in pursuing leadership roles in colleges under the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB), focusing on personal, organizational, and socio-cultural dimensions. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected via structured questionnaires from 63 female academic and non-academic staff across nine RUB colleges. Descriptive analysis and multiple regression were employed to examine the influence of the identified factors. Results indicate that women exhibit strong aspirations, intrinsic motivation, and commitment toward leadership roles, with personal factors emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.395, p < 0.05), followed by organizational factors (β = 0.384, p < 0.05). However, low self-esteem, limited budget allocation for leadership development, and insufficient policy implementation present significant barriers. Socio-cultural factors, while reflecting persistent stereotypes about women’s leadership skills, had the least statistical influence (β = 0.094, p > 0.05). Age significantly shaped perceptions of women’s leadership (p = 0.036), whereas educational qualifications did not. The findings underscore the need for targeted leadership development programs, increased institutional support, and confidence-building initiatives to translate women’s leadership potential into actual representation in decision-making roles within Bhutan’s higher education sector.