Challenges facing female heads of senior high schools in the central region of Ghana the perspective of stakeholders

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the challenges encountered by female heads of senior high schools in the Central Region of Ghana, as well as the available support systems. A mixed-method approach was used, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Data was analyzed using concurrent triangulation mix-method. The study included various educational stakeholders such as headmistresses, assistant heads, heads of departments, teachers, and district/municipal/metropolitan directors of education. The results showed that there was a division among participants regarding the existence of socio-cultural challenges faced by female heads. Some believed that cultural biases against women were diminishing in the southern part of Ghana, while others recognized the need for interventions to address unfriendly environments and challenges related to support staff. Additionally, limited resources posed a challenge in organizing training programmes for staff members, despite efforts to conduct workshops and seminars. In conclusion, the study found that female heads of senior high schools in the Central Region of Ghana did not face significant human resources, socio-cultural, or organizational challenges in the execution of their duties. The research also indicated that significant support services were provided to female heads of schools in line with their responsibilities. The study recommended the organization of sensitization programmes to create a women-friendly environment and address gender-based issues among educational stakeholders. Furthermore, it suggested the establishment of clearly defined functions and a chain of command, with appropriate sanctions of insubordinate behaviour. The central regional education directorate could prepare to the newly recruited female heads psychologically, emotional and adequately for the leadership task that is dominated by men. Such workshop could be extended to Assistant Heads and Heads of Department before taking up the leadership mantle.