Universities Shaping Relational Leaders for a Changing World (Ramamoorthi)
In her dissertation MA Bhavani Ramamoorthi provides a fresh perspective on how relational leadership takes shape within multicultural student groups in higher education. The study identifies three distinct manifestations of relational leadership, each characterized by unique relational and shared practices, leadership identity development, and collective approaches to leadership.
In an era that demands greater collaboration and global competence, Ramamoorthi’s research underscores the critical need for further studies on best practices within student groups. The research also highlights the importance of equipping students to overcome barriers to collaboration, fostering the development of high-performing groups that can operate effectively in a globalized society.
Innovative approaches to prepare emerging leaders
Addressing a gap in leadership training in higher education, the dissertation offers innovative insights into how leadership skills can be cultivated both individually and collectively among students. The research demonstrates how higher education students can simultaneously nurture relational and collective leadership abilities while achieving shared learning goals.
“These findings provide actionable guidance for educational institutions to better prepare emerging leaders to tackle complex challenges and contribute to sustainable and regenerative solutions,” Ramamoorthi describes.
Ramamoorthi’s dissertation advocates for integrating participatory pedagogies that help students appreciate and leverage diverse perspectives. Such approaches enable students to recognize the value of coexistence and collaboration among differing viewpoints, fostering knowledge development that is both conscious and inclusive. This work sets the stage for relational leadership training in higher education, with implications that extend far beyond the learning spaces.
Originally coming from India, Bhavani Ramamoorthi now lives and works in Jyväskylä, Finland and hopes to further her research and leadership training that would benefit university students to be emerging relational leaders.
Public defence on Friday 17th January 2025
The doctoral dissertation of MA(Education) Bhavani Ramamoorthi in the field of adult education titled "Relational Leadership Manifestations in a Socially Constructed Learning Environment in Higher Education" will be publicly examined at the Faculty of Education and Psychology at Ģֱ at 12:00 on Friday 17.01.2025 at Seminaarinmäki Päärakennus (Main building) room C4. The opponent is professor Auli Toom (University of Helsinki) and custos is associate professor Elina Fonsén (Ģֱ). The event is held in English.
The doctoral dissertation is available online. Link:
The public defence can be followed via remote connection. Link:
Further information:
Bhavani Ramamoorthi
