The Participation of Female Teachers in Educational Leadership in Secondary Schools in Ubungo Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Authors

Sarah Samson MbogelaFollow
Blackson Kanukisya, University of Dar es Salaam, TanzaniaFollow

Abstract

This study investigates female teachers’ participation in educational leadership in secondary schools in Ubungo Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The objectives of the study are threefold: (i) to explore the participation of female teachers in secondary schools’ leadership; (ii) to investigate the challenges facing the participation of female teachers in secondary schools’ leadership; and (iii) to establish strategies for enhancing the participation of female teachers in the leadership of secondary schools. The study employs a qualitative research approach using a single case study design. Data collection methods were interviews, focus group discussions and documentary review. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that the participation of female teachers in leadership positions in secondary schools is low (34%) compared to that of their male counterparts despite female teachers outnumbering male teachers in staff establishments. Factors behind this low participation included: socialization and gender stereotype; lack of confidence; gender roles; lack of training, seminars and workshops on specific leadership positions; and inadequate role models and mentors. As such, strategies for enhancing female teachers’ participation in educational leadership include sensitization and gender awareness, gaining academic credentials, the presence of role models and mentors, and affirmative action initiatives. Since the participation of female teachers in educational leadership positions is essential to ensure gendered development in school organization, the study recommended that equality measures be in place to increase the number of females in leadership positions; and that there is a need to address challenges that pull back the participation of females in leadership.

Recommended Citation

Mbogela, Sarah Samson and Kanukisya, Blackson (2021) "The Participation of Female Teachers in Educational Leadership in Secondary Schools in Ubungo Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania," Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences: Vol. 10 : No. 3 , Article 6.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.56279/jhss.v10.i3.5