The mediating effect of organizational culture in the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational commitment at selected Ethiopian public universities

Abstract This research was designed to examine the effect of transformational leadership (TFL) on organizational commitment (OCC): specifically focusing on the mediating role of organizational culture (OC). Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from four hundred two academic staff members at selected higher education institutions in Ethiopia and analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling. The results of this study showed that organizational commitment (OCC) of academic staff is positively influenced by transformational leadership (TFL) and organizational culture .The study also revealed that organizational culture partially mediating the association between TFL and faculty OCC. The implementation of TFL, the adoption of a supportive and innovative culture, and the presence of dedicated academic personnel directly influence the achievement of SDG4 and SDG8 in the designated public universities in Ethiopia. The study contributes to higher education leadership literature by highlighting that developing a strong, positive organizational culture is a vital mechanism through which leadership influences staff commitment. Practically, university administrators are advised to foster supportive and innovative culture alongside developing transformational leadership behaviours to enhance staff commitment and institutional sustainability.