Role of Cost Saving Measures in Internal Efficiency of Public Secondary Schools in Gatundu North Sub County, Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the role of cost saving measures in internal efficiency of public secondary schools in Gatundu North Sub County, Kiambu County. The specific objectives of the study were: To investigate the extent to which Curriculum Based Establishment is implemented, to establish the extent to which tendering and budget preparation policies are implemented, to investigate the extent to which teaching and learning time is effectively utilized and to establish the influence of implementation of cost saving measures on internal efficiency of public secondary schools in Gatundu North sub county. The Ministry of Education may benefit from the study findings by getting information on the role of cost saving in internal efficiency in public secondary schools. School administrators may use the results to help them make sound decisions on investments and efficient utilization of educational resources. The study employed descriptive research design. The target population was 29 principals in public secondary schools in Gatundu North Sub County, Sub County Director of Education and Sub County Quality Assurance and Standards Officer. All the 29 Principals, one Sub County Director of Education, one Sub County Quality and Assurance Standards Officer were selected using purposive sampling. Data from the Principals was collected using questionnaires while interview schedules were used to collect data from SCDOE and SCQASO. Piloting of the research instruments was done in three schools to clear any ambiguity in them. Data collected using questionnaires were coded and entered into a computer program (SPSS) and then analysis done. The results were presented using frequencies, means and percentages. Qualitative data were thematically organized based on the study objectives. The findings revealed that in most schools teaching workload was not allocated according to Curriculum Based Establishment. Most of the teachers in the sampled schools had less than 27 lessons per week. Further, the findings indicated that majority of the teachers were employed by the TSC. It was also established that annual school budget was prepared but implementation of the budget was a challenge due to delayed funds, nonpayment of school fees and increased debts. The schools had operational tendering committees which met regularly to tender for goods and services. On teaching workload and time management, it was found that they significantly impacted on academic performance of students. Delay in release of funds and limited financial resources were found to be major stumbling blocks in the implementation of cost saving measures geared towards enhancing internal efficiency. Based on the study findings, the study makes the following recommendations; parents should be sensitized to pay school fees in good time or negotiate with principals on school fees payment modalities to avoid students being sent home for fees. School principals should seek alternative ways such as phasing out school fees payment and looking for sponsors and bursaries for needy students instead of sending them home. The MOE should release the FSE money in good time to schools to ensure smooth running of educational programmes.