Leadership in Brazilian public universities: initiatives conducted by three state universities of São Paulo in the context of COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the role of aspects related to public leadership in the actions developed by three state universities in São Paulo (Brazil) in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, namely the University of Campinas (Unicamp), University of São Paulo (USP) and São Paulo State University (Unesp).Design/methodology/approachSince this is a viewpoint article, part of the information presented is characterized by the authors' points of view. It should be highlighted, however, that the information provided is based on searches in scientific bases, institutional websites and published press reports.FindingsAccording to the authors, aspects of public leadership are being properly employed by the public servants of the analyzed universities, resulting in the positive actions that have been implemented.Originality/valueThere is no existing literature on public leadership in these Brazilian universities during the COVID-19 pandemic.