The study investigated the challenges hindering the implementation of governance at Thamar University from the perspectives of academic and administrative leaders, while also examining whether perceptions of these obstacles varied according to gender and field of specialization. Employing a descriptive methodology that combined analytical and survey techniques, the research targeted all 218 university leaders, with 185 responding. Findings indicated a generally high level of perceived obstacles, with an overall mean of 3.47. Social obstacles ranked highest (mean = 3.50), followed by financial (3.47), and organizational/ administrative barriers (3.43). Statistical analysis revealed no significant gender-based differences in the first two domains or overall, though financial obstacles showed a significant difference favoring female respondents. No significant differences were found across fields of specialization.