Human-centred academic leadership in digital transformation of higher education: insights from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Inda, Abdulmumini and Saleh, Sofia Zianti and Tasir, Zaidatun and Ajmain@Jima’ain, Muhammad Talhah and Jamilu Sa’idu, Sabo and Mohd Yusof, Sanita and Sihes, Ahmad Johari and Alhaji Rabiu, Aliyu and Yusuf Usman, Abdullahi and Al Murshidi, Ghadah Human-centred academic leadership in digital transformation of higher education: insights from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Asia Pacific Journal of Educators and Education, 41 (1). pp. 189-217.

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Abstract

This study explored the lived leadership experiences of two former Deans at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), with particular attention to how human-centred leadership was practised during and after the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of digital transformation in higher education. A qualitative narrative inquiry design with reflexive thematic analysis was employed to investigate critical leadership incidents, decision-making processes, and adaptive strategies in the shift to remote learning, and digital pedagogy. The analysis identified five interrelated leadership themes, namely empathy-driven engagement, fairness in digital resource allocation, reciprocal trust-building through virtual communication, empowerment of faculty and students in technology-mediated learning, and adaptive responsiveness in technology-intensive contexts. The findings demonstrate the importance of emotional intelligence, ethical leadership, and situational agility in developing resilient, inclusive, and digital-ready educational ecosystems. By situating leadership within institutional transformation, the study provides practical insights for academic leaders seeking to promote innovation, digital well-being, and technology-enhanced teaching and learning in the post-pandemic era.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	L Education > L Education (General)
Divisions:	Pusat Dokumentasi & Sumber Pendidikan > Jabatan Pusat Sumber
Depositing User:	pdsp 2
Date Deposited:	01 Jul 2026 01:32
Last Modified:	01 Jul 2026 01:32
URI:	http://eprints.iab.edu.my/v2/id/eprint/1699

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