Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the practice and challenges of decision
making in resource management in secondary school of East shoa Zone. To carry out this
study descriptive survey method was employed. Participants of the study were 40
department heads, 10 principals, 50 students’ council and 10 parents –teacher’s
associations by using available sampling technique. The data were collected by using a
questionnaire, interview, and document analysis. Both qualitative and quantitative data
analysis method were employed in order to reach the results. Data obtained through
questionnaire were analyzed and summarized using statistical tools. The data were
entered into Statistical package for the Social science (SPSS Version 20.0) software
analysis. Statistical measures were performed on quantitative data assembled from the
respondents; comparing mean and one-way ANOVA was conducted. The findings of the
study were the practice of decision making process on resource management was very
low in most schools, perception of stakeholders on decision making of resource
management was poor in selected secondary schools of east shoa zone, participation of
stakeholders in decision making process of resource management was unsatisfactory and
major factors affecting decision making practice on resource management in secondary
schools were: lack of transparency, lack of guidelines, lack of knowledge and skills on
guidelines, lack of stakeholders participation. Therefore the researcher the following
conclusion; The decision made by school leaders in resource management were not
acceptable by stakeholders, in secondary schools stakeholders were negatively perceived
decision making practices made on resource management in school, in most schools the
leaders did not allow stakeholders to involve in school decisions. The study revealed that
the role and involvement of teachers in decision making of the studied schools was
ineffective. So, school leaders should support the instructional activities by creating
conducive environment to involve the stakeholders. In addition it is advisable for school
leaders ensuring effective and efficient decision making system in school and also
develop appreciation for team work and participation. Hence, it is necessary for school
leaders to facilitate conducive environment, hence, school principal should exert
maximum effort to sensitize, motivate, and encourage stakeholders’.
