Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess the factors affecting transformational leadership practice
in public secondary schools in the East Hararghe Zone, Oromia National Regional State. To
conduct this study, descriptive survey research design and a quantitative method were employed.
A total of 208 participants (181 teachers, 5 principals, 12 vice principals, 5 head supervisors, and
5 Parent Teachers-Student Association heads) participated in the study. Leaders (principals, vice
principals, heads of supervisors, and heads of the Parent Teachers-Student Association) were
selected by using the census technique, while teachers were selected by simple random sampling,
respectively. Quantitative data were collected through closed-ended questionnaires and structured
interviews from respondents (both leaders and teachers). Accordingly, the following results were
obtained: Most of the sampled school leaders were not specialized in educational planning and
management, which the requirements criteria and standards of the Ministry of Education.
Transformational leadership is rarely or not at all practiced in schools. Vision, mission, and goals
were not developed in collaboration with stakeholders. Teachers and leaders lack the necessary
knowledge and skills in recent transformational leaders. Regarding the major factors affecting
Transformational leadership practice, it was negatively affected by individually 3.5 (35%),
organizationally 3.4 (34%), and psychologically 3.1 (31%), respectively. Transformational leader
practice prepares and develops a common vision, mission, and goals for school with stakeholders,
creates opportunities for professional discussions among teachers, and creates a comfortable
environment for students and staff, so that most of the time transformational activities rather than
administrative matters are the strategies to improve the implementation of transformational leader
practice in the study areas. Based on these findings, East Hararghe Zone leaders and teachers
should have to focus on transformational leadership development, inspiring, motivating,
empowering, and vision communication, enhancing individual and organizational performance in
ways that staff build trust towards them.
