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IMPORTANT OF EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The first secondary school in Nigeria was established by Christian Missionaries in 1842 (Ige, 2013; Adesina, 1977). Since then, secondary school education has become part and parcel of the Nigerian educational system. Secondary school education according to National Policy on Education (2014) is education that learners receive after primary education and before tertiary education. Ogunode, (2021), viewed secondary school education as post-basic education meant for preparing the children for specialization. Secondary Education is the education before higher education. Ige (2013), observed that Secondary education is critical to the education of a child, being the bridge between primary and tertiary education.

The National Policy on Education (2014), listed the objectives of secondary school education to include, the preparation of the individual for: Useful living within the society and higher education. In specific terms, the objectives are to:

provide all primary school leavers with the opportunity for education of a higher level, irrespective of sex, social status, religion or ethnic background; Offer diversified curriculum to cater for the differences in talents, opportunities and future roles; Provide trained manpower in the applied science, technology and commerce at subprofessional grades; Develop and promote Nigerian languages, art and culture in the context of world cultural heritage; Inspire its students with a desire for self-improvement and achievement of excellence; Foster national unity with an emphasis on the common ties that unite us in our diversity; Raise a generation of people who can think for themselves, respect the view and feelings of others, respect the dignity of labour, appreciate those values specified under our broad national goals and live as good citizens; and Provide technical knowledge and vocational skills necessary for agricultural, industrial, commercial and economic development. It is important to note that realizing secondary school objectives hinges on effective secondary school management. Educational Management is the act of applying educational resources to implementing educational programmes for the purpose of actualizing the objectives of the education via effective planning, organizing, coordinating and controlling.

Educational management in Nigeria has not been effective due to poor planning and poor implementation of programmes and policies at all levels of educational institutions as a result of position miss-match. At primary school education, UNICEF (2017) observed that even when children are in school, a large proportion is not learning. Nearly half of all children who have completed primary school in Nigeria cannot read a complete sentence, and more than two thirds of children in Northern Nigeria, remain illiterate by the end of primary school (NPC & RTI International 2011). The 2011 monitoring of learning achievement (MLA) survey showed a National Mean Score of less than 40 per cent in both literacy and numeracy with no significant difference between boys and girls (Federal Ministry of Education, 2015).

Literacy rates have declined, especially among children in the lowest wealth quintile. Urban girls have higher literacy rates than urban boys and rural girls have lower literacy rates in general (NEDS 2015). At the secondary school education, Ige, (2013), quoting Olamousi (1998), lamented that the Universities and other tertiary institutions are complaining that candidates admitted on the basis of high grades in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) are being withdrawn due to academic incompetency and the resultant inability to understand lectures. Adeyemi and Ige, (2002), Omoregie, (2005), and. Ige, (2013) observed poor quality of secondary school students and outputs in Nigeria, which reflects increasing failure in examinations, particularly the Senior School Certificate Examinations. Stakeholders in education especially, secondary school education have blamed the poor academic performance of secondary students on ineffective management of public secondary school education in Nigeria. Based on this submission, this paper looks at the problems facing the public secondary school education management in Nigeria.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The effective management of public schools is crucial for ensuring quality education and positive outcomes for students. However, various challenges hinder the attainment of optimal management practices in these institutions. These challenges may include inadequate leadership, unclear goals and missions, insufficient resources, safety concerns, lack of parental involvement, and ineffective curriculum implementation. Additionally, issues such as staff development, performance evaluation, and community support may also impact the management of public schools. Understanding and addressing these challenges are essential for enhancing the overall effectiveness of public school management systems. Therefore, the statement of the problem for the study aims to investigate the specific obstacles and deficiencies in the management of public schools, with the goal of proposing strategies to overcome these challenges and improve educational outcomes for students.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main objective of this study is to determine importance of effective management of public school. Specific objectives include;

1. To identify the challenges compromising the effectiveness of public secondary schools in Nigeria.

2. To suggest different strategies for managing these challenges.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the primary challenges that compromise the effectiveness of public secondary schools in Nigeria?

2. What strategies can be implemented to manage these challenges effectively?

1.5 RESEARCH HYPOTHESES

H0: There is no significant relationship between identified challenges and the effectiveness of public secondary schools in Nigeria.

H1:  Implementing various strategies will significantly improve the effectiveness of public secondary schools by mitigating identified challenges.

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The effective management of public schools holds immense importance for various stakeholders involved in the education system. Firstly, it directly impacts the quality of education provided to students, ensuring they receive comprehensive learning experiences conducive to their academic and personal development. Additionally, effective management contributes to creating safe and supportive learning environments, fostering student engagement and well-being. Furthermore, it plays a vital role in optimizing resource allocation, ensuring efficient utilization of funds, facilities, and personnel. Moreover, effective management enhances accountability and transparency within schools, promoting trust and confidence among parents, educators, and the wider community. Ultimately, the significance of this study lies in its potential to improve educational outcomes, empower educators, and foster positive societal progress through the advancement of public school management practices.

1.7 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The study aims to explore the importance of effective management in public schools in Nigeria. It will examine how effective management practices impact various aspects of school functioning, including leadership, curriculum development, staff performance, safety measures, and community engagement. By investigating the significance of efficient management strategies, the research seeks to provide insights into enhancing the overall effectiveness and quality of education in Nigerian public schools.

1.8 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The effective management of public schools in Nigeria is crucial for ensuring quality education, fostering student achievement, and contributing to national development. However, limitations of this study may include constraints related to sample size, geographical coverage, and access to reliable data. Additionally, challenges such as budgetary constraints, administrative hurdles, and socio-cultural factors may impact the implementation and generalization of findings.

1.9 DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. Effective Management: The proficient administration and coordination of resources, personnel, and activities within public schools to achieve desired educational outcomes and organizational goals.

2. Public Schools: Educational institutions funded and operated by the government, typically offering tuition-free education to all students within a designated geographical area.

3. Nigeria: A country located in West Africa, known for its diverse culture, population, and challenges in the education sector, including access to quality schooling and effective management of public schools.

4. Quality Education: A comprehensive approach to learning that encompasses relevant curriculum, skilled teachers, adequate resources, and supportive environments, aimed at promoting student growth, development, and academic achievement.

5. Student Achievement: The measurable outcomes and academic performance of students in various subjects, assessments, and educational activities, reflecting their level of learning and mastery of knowledge and skills.

6. National Development: The process of improving economic, social, political, and cultural aspects of a country, including advancements in education, infrastructure, healthcare, governance, and technology, to enhance the overall well-being and progress of its citizens. 

7. Limitations of Study: Factors or constraints that may influence the scope, validity, and generalizability of research findings, including sample size, methodology, resource availability, and external factors beyond the researcher's control.

8. Socio-cultural Factors: The social, cultural, and environmental influences and conditions that shape individuals' behaviors, beliefs, values, and interactions within a specific society or community, impacting educational practices and outcomes in public schools.

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