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 thatobserve inter/multicultural education system in Sindh, Pakistan. Since the study was purely qualitative, the data obtainedthrough the semi-structured interview was coded first, and then further themes emerged under different codes. The codesthat appear from the data included Leaders’ perception and interpretations, the effect of leadership approaches towardsintercultural harmony and optimization of intercultural education at HEIs, and Practices and challenges in promotingintercultural education at HEIs. Findings of the study revealed that the education leaders try their level best to facilitateand empower inter/multicultural education system, yet they fail because of the Quota system and other socio-politicalfactors that rule Pakistani education systems. The study also established that educational leadership has a differentperspective on leadership styles that should be adopted by leaders in promoting inter/multicultural education system fromwhat literature in the field in asserting on. Most importantly, education leaders have conjectured upon the role mindsetplays 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 besignificant 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. Pakistaniuniversities and its employees would get a chance of studying in semester exchange programs, teacher trainings, andleadership in education programs will be promoted and facilitated in Pakistan and Pakistani teachers and leaders wouldalso get a chance to study or get trainings abroad.