Factors affecting women’s participation in educational leadership in Majaneg zone of Gambella people regional state

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to assess factors that affect women participation in educational leadership in Majaneg zone of GPRS. To accomplish this purpose, descriptive survey design was used which is supplemented by both quantitative and qualitative data for this study. The study was carried out in six primary and six secondary schools of Majaneg zone. Then 160 teachers from the sample schools included using proportional sampling technique. All WEO heads and ZEO head are selected using census sampling techniques and 26 school leaders (principal and vice principal) are selected using comprehensive sampling techniques. Questionnaire was the main instrument of data collection. Document analysis and interview were also utilized to substantiate the data obtained through the questionnaire. The data obtained through questionnaire was analyzed quantitatively using statistical tools such as percentage, mean, standard deviation, average mean scores and T-test while data obtained through interview, document analysis and open-ended questions were analyzed qualitatively.Among other things, the study revealed that women have low aspiration to seek and apply for educational leadership positions due to lack of self-confidence, fear of competition, and devaluation by the society. Regarding selection criteria lack professional qualifications, lack performance appraisal results, lack political affiliation and work experience were affect women’s participation and teachers and leaders perceptions concerning women’s ability, skill and competence to leadership have changed, that women leaders are perceived to be highly competent in most skills. All the same, it was found that women have still been underrepresented in educational leadership. It was also found that socio-cultural beliefs and practices; family and home responsibilities as well as institutional factors affected women’s participation in educational leadership. From the findings the studyconcludesthat women have low intrinsic motivation to leadership position affect the entry of women to leadership position. Besides that different barriers that affect social and psychological developments of women limit their participation in educational leadership. The overall recommendation of the study was to improve women’s aspiration, awareness creation and raising program should be conducted through providing training, workshops and experience share.