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
andinterview 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.
