Measuring Leadership Attributes in Vocational and Technical Education: The College of Technological Studies, Kuwait, As A Case Study

Due to the rapid change in science and technology in world economy, the issue of forging vocational and technical colleges is considered significant, especially in developing countries (e.g. Kuwait), where the shortage of semi-skilled indigenous manpower is highly noted in various sectors of the economy. The success of vocational and technical education would depend, to great extend, on those who run such institutions. The distinction between managing an academic institution and vocational and technical education institution has to be clearly made so that tangible outcomes can be achieved. The fact is that vocational and technical education has its own unique characteristics that have to be thoroughly absorbed by those who are intending to run such institutions. The study would be based on extensive fieldwork that encompassed a review of related literature, questionnaires and personal interviews with: the Dean of the College of Technological Studies, the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs, the Head of the Departments, the head of Industrial Training Programs, and selected instructors. The objectives are to measure leadership attributes (e.g. setting an appropriate strategy and plan, encouraging team work, vision, communication skills, confidence, and persistence). Finally, the paper would argues that unless the management of the College of technological Studies, CTS, realises the importance of the application of leadership attributes, the CTS would not be able to supply local industries with the needed manpower. Thus, increasing dependence on expatriates for years to come.