PRACTICES AND CHALLENGES OF DECISION MAKING IN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF EAST SHOA ZONE, OROMIA REGIONAL STATE

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’.