150 Ethics in Higher Education: Values-driven Leaders for the Future
Chancellor must be an empathetic communicator, a listener and a
decision-maker.
From observations, one senses that so many Vice Chancellors in the
country throughout these events have come across as overwhelmed, very
weakened, indecisive, compromised even into making ill-considered
decisions, a diminished power to exercise authority, in general isolated.
Who would not be in similar conditions! It is imperative that the Vice
Chancellor prioritises meetings with various structures of the
community, to be in constant communication in formal and informal
ways, to show respect for students at all levels without being deferential,
delivering on what is promised, and keep your word! To that extent, the
Vice Chancellor’s role is unashamedly political.^10 In the prevailing
circumstances what could be the political influence of the Vice
Chancellor? In what way is her or his leadership looked upon for
guidance and wisdom? Higher education leadership and management
have been sorely tested by these events. Have we learnt any lessons
from this debacle then? Time will tell.
In circumstances like these, how does a leader in a higher education
institution, one presumably founded on a common search for truth, and
seeking alike to discover knowledge and in the process all can grow in
stature and esteem, conduct the business. There is a sense in which
building confidence and trust in the Office of the Vice Chancellor is a
critical prerequisite. The process of trust building does not happen at the
heat of the moment or in the midst of conflict, it has to be a badge of
honour and practice in the ordinary daily practice of campus leadership.
In that way one learns respect by one abiding by principle and the truth
at all times, listening, however, deeply and intently to all opinions,
consulting meaningfully and ensuring that decisions taken are ones
reflective of and to the benefit of the wider community of students and
scholars. Finally, it is important that the university communicates and