EXPLORING THE INTERSECTIONALITY OF GADA AND UBUNTU PRINCIPLES IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Keywords:
Gada System, Ubuntu, educational leadership, African indigenous knowledge, community governance, societal well-beingAbstract
The intersectionality of the Gada System and Ubuntu offers a compelling avenue for research in educational leadership. Rooted in African cultural heritage, these indigenous knowledge systems have profoundly influenced leadership practices, community governance, and societal well-being across the continent. The Gada System, originating from the Oromo people of Ethiopia, exemplifies democratic governance through cyclic leadership roles, including the Abba Gada (supreme leader), Luba (council members), and Bokku (judges). Similarly, Ubuntu, a Nguni Bantu term, emphasizes interconnectedness, compassion, and shared responsibility. The phrase “I am because we are” underscores Ubuntu's core principle. The intersectionality of these systems highlights elements such as democratic and rotational leadership, ethical and compassionate governance, community participation, balanced power distribution, and accountability. This explorative study reveals practical implications for educational leaders: inclusive decision-making processes, ethical leadership development, and power distribution mechanisms. By weaving Gada and Ubuntu principles into educational leadership, the great memories and values of African traditional systems are not only honoured and respected but the weaving of a more compassionate and effective leadership landscape for a more transformational educational leadership engagement is accentuated.References
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