An analysis of the involvement of female students in leadership

The study sought to find out the extent of involvement of female students in Students Representative Councils at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic( SRC). A largely qualitative approach was employed making use of a case study. Participants included all college students and lecturers from which purposive sampling was done. An open-ended questionnaire, face to face interview and documentary analysis were administered. Data was generated, presented, interpreted and analyzed by means of thick descriptions. Results obtained proved that females students were to a less extent involved in leadership roles owing to factors like lack of confidence stereotyping, internalized oppression, socio-cultural factors and the ¿pull down syndrome¿. One striking finding of this study was the leadership competence associated with female students despite their limited numbers in the Students Representative Councils. Important recommendations were made to key stakeholders to ensure all barriers are eradicated in order to enhance equal leadership opportunities for national transformation and development.