Challenges and coping mechanisms of women in leadership in senior high schools in the Cape Coast Metropolis

Abstract

The role and contribution of women in modern organisations have been phenomenal. However, societal norms and other patriarchal values continue to stifle the progress of women leaders. The overall purpose of the study was to examine the challenges and coping strategies of women in leadership in the Senior High Schools in the Cape Coast Metropolis. The study adopted non-numerical data and used purely qualitative research approach. Phenomenological design was used to support the study framework where the required data were collected through interviews. The target population for the study were female headmistresses and assistant headmistresses in the various Senior High Schools in the Metropolis. The study used involved all six female headmistresses and eight assistant headmistresses in the Metropolis. The participants were sampled using the census to meet the study objectives. The data were analysed thematically. The study revealed that no policies or programmes were in place to discourage women from enhancing their careers as women. However, in spite of the aforementioned provisions, there are few mentors occupying such positions and there are no training programmes available to train females who are interested in occupying leadership positions. It is recommended among many that Ministry of Education and Ministry of Gender and Social Protection provide policies that would enhance women capacity and skills towards leadership positions, the Ghana Education Service should design policies aimed at protecting women leaders from men egoism and insubordination by introducing strong punishment for those found culpable.