Women and The Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity (Vuca) in The Department of Education -Region Xii: Leadership Competence and Work-Life Balance

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The present society is described by prominent authorities as Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous. In the world that is constantly changing, the gradual rise of women in corporate ranks during the recent years cannot be ignored. Myriad possibilities must be considered and education, takes its lead. Women have come a long way. Yet, more women are rising to the leadership challenge even in some of the most male-dominated industries. Noting the increasing number of women in the top leadership and management positions in the Department of Education, it is interesting to feature women leaders in the area where they excel most.

METHODS

This study presents how women leaders by their nature of work as elementary and secondary school heads, division and regional chiefs of offices are able to overcome VUCA challenges in the workplace and in their homes. This was participated by 247 women leaders in the Department of Education -Region XII and is further substantiated by the 426 teachers and support staff under their direct supervision. Descriptive correlational survey design was employed to provide appropriate analysis, interpretation and implication of results.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that the VUCA situation in Department of Education -Region XII occur "sometimes" and leaders are "highly competent" based on Direct, Understandable, Reliable and Trustworthy (DURT), Liberal, Exuberant, Agility and Partnership (LEAP) and Vision, Understanding, Clarity and Agility (VUCA Prime) criteria. However, they faced obstacles in their work-life balance, specifically, with "stress", "leisure", "technology" and "self-management". It also reveals significant relationship between leadership competence and the number of trainings/seminars attended relative to administrative roles. ANOVA showed that the VUCA challenges significantly differed between those of school administrators and those of the regional and division personnel.

DISCUSSIONS

The Department of Education -Region XII has empowered women leaders who are highly competent in countering the VUCA situations and maintain a balance between professional work and personal life. To better prepare the next generation of empowered leaders to succeed in the increasingly VUCA world, the researcher recommends that similar study should be undertaken involving the male leaders and would be leaders and include VUCA concept in the curriculum for them to be adept with this global context of leadership.