Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the practices and challenges in implementing co-curricular activities in public primary schools of Damboya Woreda. In order to meet the objective of the study, explanatory sequential research design was employed. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select sample population. The population of the study was 30 schools, 100 students, 162 teachers, 23 principals and vice principals and 10 cluster supervisors. Moreover, 80 students, 115 teachers, 10 principals and 10 cluster supervisors were used as a sample of the study. Questionnaire, interview and document analysis were employed as data collection instruments in the study. To analyze the quantitative data, both descriptive (percentage, mean and standard deviation), and inferential statistics (regression) were employed. The findings of the study revealed that the current practices of co-curricular activities in the second cycle primary schools were low. Concerning the importance of co- curricular activities in schools, the majority of respondents replied that co- curricular activities have high benefits, help to encourage relationship between students and teachers. In terms of challenges, low motivation of teachers and students, shortage of training on co- curricular activities, teacher’s work load, and lack of incentive and support affect the implementation of co- curricular activities. Finally, based on findings, it was recommended that the practices of current implementation of co-curricular activities needs improvement to start raising motivation of students and teachers, and promoting rewards and incentives for students and teachers continuously. The school community and woreda education offices should create conducive learning environment and provide training on co- curricular activities to foster the implementation of co- curricular activities. All kinds of co-curricular activities cannot be carried without teachers and students motivation. Therefore, principals and woreda education office should encourage the motivation by rewards and incentives.
