Enhancing Capacity Building Prior to Appointment as Heads of Departments in Universities

Abstract

Developing the capacity of prospective heads of departments (HoDs) at universities is essential for promoting effective leadership and enhancing performance within higher academic institutions. This research investigated capacity building prior to appointment as a HoD in Ghana. The study aimed to enhance capacity building of heads of departments prior to their appointment as heads at the University of Cape Coast. A descriptive survey design was used, and 40 Heads of Department across the University Campuses were sampled for the study. A structured questionnaire was used for the data collection. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings show that all the academic HoDs in this study have not been offered any orientation/workshop or formalized training before their appointments as Heads of Departments. Most of the HoDs desired to acquire office procedures skills before they were appointed HoDs. This study has shown that academic HoDs in the University of Cape Coast do not have any orientation/workshop or formalized training prior to appointments as heads of departments. The university should provide training programmes and workshops for academic candidates (Senior Lecturers/Associate Professors/Professors) who are eligible for appointment as heads of departments to improve their administrative skills and competencies before their appointments to the position of HoDs.