Abstract
How to cite: Mfopa, M. M., Mitonga-Monga, J., Molotsi, T. (2025), "Power structures impeding the progression of women to senior management positions: a study of higher education institutions". Annals of Spiru Haret University. Abstract The progression and participation of women in senior management positions in higher education institutions in South Africa have been limited despite progressive laws aimed at promoting gender equality. This study aimed to understand the inherent power structures which impede the progression of women to senior management positions in an Open Distance e-Learning higher education institution. The Feminist Standpoint Theory was adopted as a lens and theoretical framework for framing the study. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was employed as the research design for the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 25 participants, and the interviews were transcribed verbatim. A thematic data analysis was employed to analyse the data. The findings of this study revealed that the inherent power structures which impede the progression of women to senior management positions include patriarchal structures, acknowledgement of male leadership standards over women's standards, gendered and stereotyped power structures, and non-compliance with gender equity constitutional stipulations. The study also displayed the visible patriarchal features and reasons men progress to senior management. The findings emphasised the need for the ODeL higher education institution to implement policies and laws that promote the progression of women to senior management positions.