Abstract:
This study investigated the catalytic role of leadership in fostering organizational change within the Educational Assessment and Examinations Service (EAES). In today's rapidly changing educational environments, organizations face continuous pressure to adapt to technological advancements and shifting service delivery dynamics. Effective leadership is critical in navigating these challenges, as it significantly influences the success of organizational change initiatives. This research executed a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative approach, to gather comprehensive insights from EAES employees regarding the catalytic role of leadership on organizational change success. A total of 122 participants took part in the study, and they were selected using simple random sampling to ensure everyone had an equal chance of being included. This approach helps minimize selection bias and enhances the representativeness of the sample. The study aimed to gather reliable and generalizable data by involving individuals from diverse backgrounds, thereby strengthening the validity of the findings. The objectives of this study were to analyze how EAES leadership influences organizational change, to assess the effectiveness of professional development and training programs initiated by EAES leaders to identify specific strategies employed by leaders to manage resistance to change, in organizational change. The findings revealed that EAES leaders are positively influencing organizational changes, in having clear vision, strategies and communicating and engage employees in the change process. An impressive (90.8%) of respondents express satisfaction with the newly implemented online service methods. There were also challenges outlined in other areas, particularly in professional development and managing resistance to changes. The study emphasized the significance of aligning training programs with organizational goals to ensure that employees are effectively equipped for the evolving demands of their roles. Developing tailored training and professional development programs is vital for enhancing employee skills and career growth. Regular evaluation of these programs is necessary to ensure they effectively contribute to employee development and align with organizational goals. Establishing robust feedback systems is crucial for regularly assessing stakeholder perceptions and addressing concerns, ultimately leading to a more engaged and committed workforce. This research contributes valuable insights into the interplay between leadership and organizational change, offering a comprehensive framework for EAES and similar organizations aiming for the catalytic role of leadership in fostering organizational change
