Leadership Artistry that Facilitates Positive Change – A Case Study at the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa

Abstract

This paper examines the leadership artistry used by Professor Daniel Mireku-Gyimah that has made lasting impressions on the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa in Ghana. A qualitative research method based on direct observations, interview, questionnaire and review of valid documents were used to analyze and assess his leadership artistry and characteristics. Thorough analyses of the findings, from a synergy of creative artistic attributes and his leadership characteristics with specific reference to his position as the Chief Executive Officer of UMaT, which fashioned his successes and challenges, are presented. There are many leadership theories, all claiming to answer the question are leaders born or made? Prof. Mireku-Gyimah’s exceptional qualities and achievements come to the fore, very strongly, to label him as more of being a made than a born leader. The paper asserts that he stands tall due to his rare powerful creative leadership style underpinned by artistic attributes to change the hue of UMaT’s history under extreme economic and political conditions within a very short period of time. Evidentially, his effective educational leadership made immense difference in pedagogical strategies that translated into positive impact on students, lecturers, the entire university community and beyond. The study also revealed sources of his energy: determination, encouragement by his spouse, support and cooperation from his peers, workers and the general public. All in all, the paper presents an infrequent trailblazer in UMaT chronicles which will serve as a reference point for educators, historians, and other researchers in Art and leadership studies.