| Issue/Objective |
The primary aim of this study was to develop a grounded theory to understand public health leadership in the Nepalese context. To achieve this aim, I explored how leadership is developed and enacted at the individual level, and identified the key qualities and competencies required for effective public health leadership. The study focused on capturing lived experiences and leadership trajectories of public health professionals within Nepal's health system. |
| Methodology/Approach |
This study adopted a grounded theory methodology guided by a constructivist approach. Data were collected through multiple sources, including database analysis of Ministry of Health HR records, document analysis of six job descriptions, 47 in-depth interviews with 27 participants, and six focus group discussions. Each participant was interviewed one to three times to gain detailed insights into their leadership journeys and practices. Focus group discussions with staff further enriched the data by capturing diverse perspectives on leadership qualities and competencies. Data analysis followed grounded theory procedures, including memo writing, transcription, and mind mapping. Initial coding, focused coding, and constant comparison were applied to develop categories and an integrated theoretical framework. Credibility, originality, resonance, and usefulness were ensured throughout the analysis process. |
| Results |
The findings identify four phases of leadership development: initiation, identification, development, and expansion. The initiation phase is shaped by early life experiences, including family background, socio-cultural context, and personal traits that build foundational leadership awareness. The identification phase begins when individuals assume formal roles in health organizations and are recognized as leaders. In the development phase, leadership capabilities are strengthened through experience, exposure, and additional responsibilities. The expansion phase reflects advanced leadership characterized by continuous self-directed learning and navigation of complex systems. Leadership enactment evolves across these phases, from managerial functions to relational and political engagement. Key competencies include subject expertise, vision, passion, socio-cultural intelligence, interpersonal influence, organizational management skills, and ethical integrity. |
| Discussion/Conclusion |
This study presents a grounded theoretical framework explaining how public health leaders emerge and evolve in Nepal. It integrates leadership development, enactment, and competencies into a unified model with implications for strengthening leadership theory and practice. |
| Presenters and Affiliations |
Raghunath Agasti Nepal Unity Hospital |
