Staffs’ perceptions of the roles of school heads in financial administration in senior high schools in the komenda-edina-eguafo-abrem municipality

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to find out staffs’ perceptions of the roles of school heads in financial management in senior high schools in the Komenda- Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality. Data were gathered from a sample of 159 members of staff in 3 schools in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality using a questionnaire with an internal reliability co-efficient of .82. The data collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 16.0 software. The study revealed that heads did not involve the staff in the financial planning process of the school and this made the staff feel reluctant to participate in any project of the school. Moreover, some staff felt they were not part of the school since they hardly took part in the decision making process in the school. In this regard, subordinates found it very difficult to commit themselves fully in implementation of decisions made by superiors. The study therefore, recommends that prospective school heads should be encouraged and supported by the Ghana Education Service to pursue courses in financial administration and management before they are appointed as heads of schools. Heads should delegate authority to other members of staff for the performance and/or supervision most of the functions discussed above, but the head’s check on these issues is highly recommended. From the results of the study, it can be concluded that, school heads in the KEEA are not well equipped with relevant knowledge and training in financial administration compared to their accountants and bursars.