Effectiveness of Parental Involvement in Management of Primary Schools in Kyerwa District, Kagera Region, Tanzania

Alphonce Merryness and Clara Rupia
Department of Education Foundations
St. Augustine University of Tanzania
Email: kokubela55@gmail.com

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to establish effectiveness of parental involvement in management of primary schools in Kyerwa District, Tanzania. The study adopted Epstein conceptual framework to guide the conceptualization process and formulation of study objective. In addition, a mixed approach involving descriptive research design was used to carry out the study. The target population of the study was parents whose children attend primary education and have been elected to serve in the school management committee. The study population was 730 parents who are members of the school management committee. Data for the study was collected from 146 primary schools which are found in the district and from a sample of 82 parents. The study used probability and non-probability sampling specifically proportionate and purposive sampling, which provided the best data to achieve the objective of the study, questionnaire and structured interviews were used as instruments for data collection. The study concludes that parents were not effectively involved in management of primary schools. They were not always involved in decision making in running of the school. In light of the findings, the study recommends that primary schools headmasters should actively involve parents who are members of school management committee in decision making. This will enable school leaders to incorporate parents’ interests in daily running of the school and hence create a better teaching/learning environment, thus contribute to achieving quality primary education.