Educational Leadership: The Path to Social and Academic Transformation

The role of education is to transmit culture, prepare people for work and for effective global citizen for current and future generations globally (Day, C. 2014). We are in the era of globalisaton where economics, politics and culture co-exist. Education leadership needs to influence leadership in all aspect of society: communities, organisations, and governments. Ineffective leadership in education impacts on leadership in all other aspect of society. Leadership development starts in schools. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” (President Nelson Mandela) “Great leadership is the key determinant for success in people, organisation, society. Yet, “Leadership emerges as the biggest challenge of all for 2013 and beyond" (Gmur, M. 2013 World Economic Forum) In line with aim The National College Education Leadership (Jamaica), “to develop excellent school leadership, which will transform children’s achievement and well being; build national policy and priorities into training and identify and develop future school leaders” (Judith A Hunter 2013), this presentation explored: • What is the role of education leaders as social, cultural and intellectual entrepreneurs? • What are the personal and professional values, characteristics and competencies of dynamic 21st century education leaders/leadership? • Are education leaders born or made? • How do we train and/or develop education leaders and leadership, studentship for Jamaica and the Caribbean for the 21st century? • How emotionally intelligent are education leaders and leadership? • How will education leaders inspire and influence future generations of citizens, leaders who will effect change in education and the wider social, economic, political context for change in Jamaica