This research investigated followers’ expectations of their heads of departments (HoDs) and how they felt about the fulfilment of the expectations within the context of Ghanaian higher education. It further explored the nature of the challenges the HoDs faced as they tried to meet followers’ expectations. The research used a phenomenological design and engaged 36 participants selected from three large Ghanaian universities to participate in individual interviews. Data were analysed using the interpretative phenomenological analytical technique. The research revealed that while the subordinate staff expected a more supportive work environment, the students wanted a more conducive learning environment. The HoDs were, however, constrained to do much because of the ethos of the Ghanaian HE sector. The study concluded with recommendations informing policy and practice, both locally and internationally.

这项研究调查了追随者对其部门负责人 (HoD) 的期望，以及他们对在加纳高等教育背景下实现期望的感受。它进一步探讨了 HoD 在试图满足追随者的期望时所面临的挑战的性质。该研究采用现象学设计，并邀请了从加纳三所大型大学中选出的 36 名参与者进行个人访谈。使用解释现象学分析技术分析数据。研究表明，虽然下属员工希望有一个更有支持性的工作环境，但学生们想要一个更有利于学习的环境。然而，由于加纳 HE 部门的风气，HoD 只能做很多事情。