Journeys to the Top: The Case of Women Rectors at Selected Public Universities in Vietnam

Abstract

The aim of this research is to provide an understanding of the experiences of senior Vietnamese women leaders in higher education with reference to women Rectors at selected public universities in Vietnam. The study has sought to examine how four Vietnamese women have successfully moved up on the top decision-making position in selected public universities by investigating the influential factors including education and personal backgrounds, career path, opportunities and leadership practices that may contribute to those women’s successes. I am using this prologue to detail my personal background and experiences, and my standpoint, which I believe will give an insight into some aspects of women’s lives in contemporary Vietnam. This opening also provides the reader with some brief information about me, a Vietnamese woman, a learner and a research student, and the choice that have led me on a doctoral journey to this thesis.