The workplace discrimination of women in educational leadership: a case of Waterberg district in Limpopo province

Abstract

In South Africa's Limpopo Province, the pervasiveness of gender-based discrimination in educational leadership poses substantial hurdles, particularly for women who aspire to higher positions of authority. The purpose of this study was to get a deeper understanding of the unique challenges that these women confront and to make suggestions based on that knowledge. We used a strategy that combined qualitative and quantitative research methods, which is known as a mixed-method approach. Focus group interviews were conducted with a subsample of participants drawn from the pool of one hundred people who had previously filled out a structured questionnaire. This pool included four principals, four circuit managers, and two senior district managers. This study is grounded on Feminist Theory, which postulates that power disparities between genders in the workplace are the root cause of prejudices that occur in the workplace. The data were analysed using a method known as thematic analysis. According to the data, even though women in Limpopo often fill leadership positions in an acting capacity, they are at a disadvantage when it comes to the official appointment procedures. Notable is the fact that a good number of these women had clear signs of mental discomfort, which were manifested as sentiments of resentment, wrath, and disappointment. The research highlights the significance of strict control on gender discrimination in leadership jobs as an effective means of addressing these discrepancies and working towards their elimination. In addition, it is advised that throughout the stages of recruiting, selection, and appointment, complete compliance with employment regulations be maintained.