Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the practices and challenges of block grant managemnt in
government primary schools in Harari, regional state. This study incorporated qualitative and
quantitative data. The descriptive survey research method was employed. Sources of data
were principals, department heads and PTSA members, woreda education and finance office
experts, and representatives from the REB. Census and random sampling was used in
selecting the participants. The data was collected using a questionnaire and interview guide.
The Cornbrash’s alpha reliability coefficient for the instrument was 0.83. The data obtained
through questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics tools such as
frequency, Mean, combined mean, standard deviation, and independent sample t-test was
employed. The finding indicates that a lack of clear guidelines and knowledge among school
leaders regarding the block grant, absence needs assessments, scarce participation of
teachers in block grant planning, inconsistency in the number of block grants received by
schools and lack of transparency are identified in the practice. Regarding utilization, because
the grant is inadequate for the teaching learning process, it is not utilized in alignment with
school plans. Moreover, grants inadequacy in supporting teaching and learning processes
and their inflexible nature contribute to their overall ineffectiveness. The lack of an
accountant, cashier and auditor, significantly affects the control and monitoring of the grant.
The identified challenges were delays in the delivery of materials, poor quality of goods and
stationery, discrepancies between allocated grants and expenses, and inadequate training for
the PTSA in financial control. It is recommended that the Harari REB should evaluate the
practice of block grant utilization and develop new guidelines, create awareness of
responsible bodies, change the grant transfer system to a financial disumberssement, establish
a monitoring and evaluation system which makes change in decision-making system that
involves PTSA
