Strategies for Transforming Doctoral Non-Completion into Academic Leadership Empowerment: Insights from Higher Education Management Practices

Mohamad Zahir Zainudin, Sazelin Arif, Ali Hafizar Mohammad Rawi and Muhammad Zaki Zaini
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Mohamad Zahir Zainudin: Institute Pengurusan Technology dan Keusahawanan Universiti Technical Malaysia Melaka
Sazelin Arif: Institute Pengurusan Technology dan Keusahawanan Universiti Technical Malaysia Melaka
Ali Hafizar Mohammad Rawi: Centre for Language Learning University Technical Malaysia Melaka
Muhammad Zaki Zaini: Faculty of Islamic Economics and Finance University Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, BRUNEI

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 26, 8418-8425

Abstract: Doctoral non-completion among academic staff presents a persistent challenge for higher education institutions seeking to maintain competitiveness and leadership capacity. This study explores strategies for transforming doctoral non-completion into academic leadership empowerment within a Malaysian university context. Using a qualitative case study design at Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), data were collected through semi-structured interviews with three senior academic leaders. Thematic analysis revealed three interrelated strategies which are structured personal development, empathetic and collaborative culture, and faculty development and career advancement. These strategies collectively reposition non-completion as a developmental pathway rather than a terminal setback. Findings align with Malaysia's Education Blueprint (Higher Education) 2015-2025 and AKEPT's leadership agenda. The noble purpose of this study is to provide actionable insights that enable universities to retain talent, safeguard institutional reputation, and accelerate leadership capacity while doctoral completion remains in progress.

Date: 2025
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