Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess school autonomy and its challenges: in secondary
schools of Sheka Zone,( SNNPRs). To analyze data SPSS Version 20 version was used. The
descriptive tools for data analysis were frequency, percentage and mean value. Gathered
data through interview was presented and analyzed qualitatively based on themes to
supplement the data to be gathered through close-ended questions in a questionnaire. Which
means qualitative data was analyzed thematically. School autonomy includes provide making
all learning program and material decision; allow immediate feedback to teachers to
improve instructional activities and tasks. The finding shows as there is mutual respecting
behavior for its customers such as teachers, students, community, parents and etc.
Challenges to school autonomy such as weakness of decentralization on school
administration as a challenge to school autonomy effectiveness, lack of in service training to
manage school autonomy, lack community participation in school activity is challenges to
school autonomy and inadequate school resources as challenges to school autonomy. The
finding shows different strategies to tackle challenges of school autonomy. Such as; inculcate
school progress in school culture, emphasize school autonomy in performance reviews,
developing time line, empowering stakeholders, hold accountability and invite community to
participate in school activities. School leadership should promote effective roles on school
administration. Government should promote in service training to school leadership and
supervisors to manage school autonomy. Community should be effectively and actively
participated in all school activities to promote effective school autonomy in decision making,
teaching learning process and teachers’ professional development. Government and NGOs
should allocate enough resources in form of cash and kinds to develop school autonomy
