In-Service Training of Headteachers in Resource Management and the Implementation of Free Primary Education in Public Primary Schools in Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

The role played by in-service training in resource management by head teachers in Free Primary Education (FPE) in public primary schools is critical. Through the FPE policy, the government pays teachers, support staff and caters for utilities and the required basic teaching and learning resources. This study sought to establish the influence of in-service training of head teachers in resource management on their implementation of free primary education (FPE) in public primary schools in Kiambu County, Kenya. Theoretical foundation of the study was the Social Demand Approach to Education which is a model of educational planning aiming at aligning the educational investments according to the social demand for education but including economic use of the available resources. The study used an ex-post facto research design. A sample size of 50 head teachers was selected using simple random sampling from a population of 500 head teachers working in public primary schools in Kiambu County. The study used semi-structured questionnaires to collect primary data from the head teachers while secondary data was collected from official records. The study findings show that lack of resource management skills among Head teachers affected implementation of FPE. The study recommends that Government should avail sufficient resources for more frequent in-service training courses based on current education management issues.