UNDERSTANDING LEADERSHIP FOR INSTITUTIONAL EXCELLENCE

Abstract

In order to create a culture of excellence in higher education institutions, effective leadership is required. Chapter 19 part II of National Education Policy 2020 deals with effective governance and leadership for higher education institutions. One of the seven criteria used by National Assessment and Accreditation Council for assessment of higher education institutions is governance, leadership and management. This article will focus on the qualities which makes an effective leader. No one can become an effective leader by hook or by crook. It requires great austerities and self-control on the part of a leader to remain equipoised in all circumstances of life. The impediments to effective leadership are selfishness, procrastination, lack of perseverance, dishonesty and so on. Tremendous will power and changed course of life is required to break off these impediments. Many books and literature on effective leadership are available in the market. The truth is that there is no easy short cut recipe for developing leadership qualities. Self-interest is the most powerful factor in everyone’s life. To be a person of character and to act without any selfish motive is the starting point of good and effective leadership. In fact, effective leadership is a by-product of spirituality. Spiritual growth can be achieved if we live our worldly life in accordance with human values. Ancient Indian scriptures specially the Bhagwad Gita gives us guidelines as to how to transform our lives so as to become masters of our destiny. Only a person whose thoughts, words and deeds are in harmony has the potential to become a true leader. The personal example of a leader is the most infectious.