DOI: 10.36347/sjahss.2019.v07i11.001

Pages: 748-761

The main objective of this study was to examine the practices and challenges of stakeholder’s participation in decision making in secondary schools of Borena Zone, Oromia Regional State. To conduct this study, a concurrent research design, which is a part of descriptive research approach, was employed to conduct the study. The data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews, FGDs and document reviews. Questionnaires were used to collect data from 60 teachers, and 50 school leaders including (12 principals, 24 department heads and 14 unit leaders) included in the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 supervisors and FGDs were also conducted with 36 PTSA members. School teachers and department heads respondents were selected by simple random sampling method, while principals, unit leaders, PTSA members and supervisors were selected by purposive sampling method. Document review was also a part of this study. Data gathered through questionnaire were analyzed through quantitative approach using frequencies, percentages, mean, standard deviation and an independent sample t-test whereas data obtained through interviews, FGDs and document reviews were qualitatively analyzed. The major findings of the study disclosed that extents of stakeholder’s participation in decision making process in secondary schools of Borena zone were low in the absence of stakeholder’s participation such as, in follow up fulfillment of school plan and disciplinary issues. It was thus concluded that the participation of stakeholders in areas of school decision making process was low. Thus, it is recommended that, school leaders ensuring effective and efficient decision making system in school and also develops appreciation for team work and participation to reduce fear of risk taking. Further research to be conducted for the root cause of low stakeholder’s participation in decision making in government secondary schools of Borena zone.