Gender Diversity, Sustainable Development Goals and Human Resource Management Practices in Higher Education

Abstract

Based on a systematic literature review, this article analyses the issue of gender diversity in higher education institutions (HEIs) and explores the role of strategic human resource management practices in its management. Results indicate that HEIs do not deal with gender diversity and challenges in achieving sustainable development goal-5 (SDG-5) proactively but manage them with compliance and some affirmative actions. The study finds that the number of women holding top leadership positions is substantially low, indicating the need for gender diversity in leadership. The glass ceiling for women is still intact in HEIs, presenting internal and external barriers that limit the career growth of women employees, especially in leadership roles. The research outlines the importance of gender-focused HRM policies and practices in HEIs. The review also confirms that the UN target to address challenges in achieving SDG-5 by 2030 needs reassessment.