INFLUENCE OF LEADERSHIP COMMITMENT ON ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE OF UNIVERSITIES IN MERU COUNTY.

Abstract

Effective leadership is fundamental to the success of any institution, particularly in academic settings where leaders play a crucial role in guiding strategic direction, fostering a conducive working environment, and promoting organizational growth and development. Leadership commitment encompasses the dedication, passion, and accountability demonstrated by university leaders towards achieving institutional goals and objectives. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of leadership commitment on organizational management performance of Universities in Meru County. The study employed a descriptive research design to explore the correlation between leadership commitment and organizational management performance across six universities in Meru County. It encompassed all 72 individuals, including administrators, faculty, and staff members, from both public and private institutions. Quantitative data was gathered through structured surveys, utilizing standardized scales. Analysis involved descriptive statistics for summarization and inferential statistics like correlation and regression analysis to explore the relationship. Findings were presented visually using tables, charts, and graphs. The study findings suggest a strong positive relationship between leadership commitment and organizational management performance in Universities of Meru County. Participants acknowledged the leadership's dedication to the institution's mission and vision, effective communication of goals, and active solicitation of input. While fostering a culture of trust and transparency could be improved, overall, leadership commitment was seen as a significant driver of organizational success. The regression analysis underscores this, indicating that leadership commitment explains 72.6% of the variation in management performance. Based on the findings, the study concluded that leadership commitment significantly influences organizational management performance in Meru County universities. Leadership dedication, as evidenced by effective communication and engagement, plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational effectiveness. The study recommended that universities prioritize fostering leadership commitment through training, feedback mechanisms, and transparent communication channels. Cultivating a culture of dedication and inclusivity among leaders enhances organizational effectiveness and stakeholder engagement.