Individual factors influencing effectiveness of board of management members in management of human resources in secondary schools in Kyuso District, Kitui County, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the effectiveness of Board of management (BOM) in management of human resources in public secondary schools in Kyuso District, Kitui County, Kenya. The study sought to establish the influence of exposure to training, academic qualifications, experience, and current profession on BOM effectiveness in management of human resource. The study used a descriptive survey design. The study used stratified sampling to select a representative sample of 10 secondary schools out of 20 schools in Kyuso District which was 50 percent of the total number of schools. This was sufficient according to Mungenda and Mugenda (1999). The sample for the respondents was selected using simple random sampling technique. A sample of 30 BOM members (10%) and 20 (50%) head of departments was used out of a total population of 300 BOM members and 40 head of departments in the selected schools.The study used questionnaires to collect data. The data collected was coded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS)software. The study revealed that majority (66.7%) of the BOM members in KyusoDistrict had not attended management training while only 33.3 percent had been trained. Those not trained lacked confidence and also were not sure about their duties and therefore not good in management compare to those who had attended.It was also revealed that majority (86.3%) of the BOM members had at leasta degree as their highest academic qualification while 14.7 percent had a Diploma and certificate. The more educated BOM members were better in human resources management. Thirdly, majority (76%) had 3 - 6 years‟ experience as BOM members hence were in a better position for human resources management. However 70 percent had not been inducted and therefore lacked the required skills for BOM human resources management. Finally majority (56%) of boards members were not in management in their profession hence lacked management experience as opposed to those in management. The study concluded that training, Education level, experience and professional status influence BOM human resource management.The study recommendations were; The BOM should be continuously trained on human resources management, experience and professional status should beconsidered in appointing Boards and that those with prior experience or are in management professions should be given priority in appointment.Further research can be done on An evaluation of the Government training strategies for BOM and PTA members in secondary schools, factors influencing the head teachers‟ management of school resources in public primary schools and factors influencing the BOM strategy for motivating teachers in public secondary schools.