An Exploratory Study of Inter/Multicultural Education System in Higher Education Institutions of Sindh: Education Leaders’ Perceptions vs. Realities
Abstract
An exploratory study was conducted to gauge leaders’ perceptions against realities in higher education institutions that
observe inter/multicultural education system in Sindh, Pakistan. Since the study was purely qualitative, the data obtained
through the semi-structured interview was coded first, and then further themes emerged under different codes. The codes
that appear from the data included Leaders’ perception and interpretations, the effect of leadership approaches towards
intercultural harmony and optimization of intercultural education at HEIs, and Practices and challenges in promoting
intercultural education at HEIs. Findings of the study revealed that the education leaders try their level best to facilitate
and empower inter/multicultural education system, yet they fail because of the Quota system and other socio-political
factors that rule Pakistani education systems. The study also established that educational leadership has a different
perspective on leadership styles that should be adopted by leaders in promoting inter/multicultural education system from
what literature in the field in asserting on. Most importantly, education leaders have conjectured upon the role mindset
plays in promoting the inter/multicultural education systems in HEIs; undergraduates should be taught about openness,
celebrating diversity, and Education leaders are the direct beneficiaries of the study. However, this study will also be
significant for students and teachers alike. As promoting an open culture that fosters peace and harmony among students,
teachers and administrators, both nationally and internationally would open doors of opportunities for everyone. Pakistani
universities and its employees would get a chance of studying in semester exchange programs, teacher trainings, and
leadership in education programs will be promoted and facilitated in Pakistan and Pakistani teachers and leaders would
also get a chance to study or get trainings abroad.
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