Challenges faced by principals in managing heads of departments for promotion of quality teaching and learning processes in UMkhanyakude secondary schools

Abstract
Percentage pass rate is a serious problem in uMkhanyakude schools which is attributed to problems principals face in managing HoDs to ensure that there is effective teaching and learning. The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges faced principals in managing heads of departments in the promotion of quality teaching and learning processes in uMkhanyakude Secondary Schools. Mixed method research design was used. Findings from the study reveal that most school principals exercise total power over the entire administration. HoDs hardly receive internal guidance and training in schools to make them better managers, milestone setting is a challenge with most principals. There is little follow up being done on supervision data. Most principals rarely prioritise motivation as means of stimulating drive to achieve more. Principals have neglected setting and consistently maintaining the tone in shaping up the desired school culture. Principals limit the process of resource mobilisation as means of strengthening their financial muscle. Little time is given to policy planning and administration which makes the school derail from its vision. HoDs participation needs to be enhanced through collaborative participation with the principal in drawing up the vision within the organisational scope. The study recommends that principals apply change management strategy for any development strategy. Following the principle of decentralisation, decision making principals’ transformational leadership helps them to impart authority to the HoDs and the staff. This will improve instruction in schools hence learners will obtain good results.
Description
A thesis submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education in the Department of Educational Planning & Administration in the Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, 2020.
Keywords
Pass rate, Effective teaching and learning
Citation