Challenges faced by women in educational leadership: A Case of Emakhandeni-Entumbane Cluster

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the challenges faced by women in educational leadership. The study was carried out in Entumbane- Emakhandeni cluster in Bulawayo Province. The objectives of the study were to find problems faced by women, examine the reasons why women face leadership problems and assess strategies that can be used to solve the problems faced by women in the educational sector. The population of this study consisted of five school heads, five deputy heads and five Teachers-in-Charge. The study adopted a case study approach and the participants were chosen through purposive sampling technique. The researcher uses qualitative research design which enables the researcher to use questionnaires and semi structured interviews in collecting data. The research findings revealed that due to cultural beliefs, women in educational leadership encounter similar obstacles; they are ranked differently from their male counter parts and generally viewed as incompetent leaders. Furthermore, the participants highlighted that they also face discrimination and stereotyping from both male and female subordinates. The research recommends that curriculum context in schools must portray women as capable people and be in leadership positions and there is need for gender sensitivity advocacy programs on both print and electronic media. This will assist the community to refrain from viewing women as second class citizens who should only be led by men.