CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS FROM THE ZF MGCAWU DISTRICT OF THE NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCE.

Abstract

The study reports on the challenges faced by women primary school principals from the ZF Mgcawu District of the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. South African women in education school leadership positions are still facing various challenges post democracy. The study was conducted from a feminine perspective and employed the qualitative research methodology, allowing the researcher to collect relevant data in a natural school setting. The research objectives were to identify some of the challenges female primary school principals are faced with and to recommend ways women could manage and cope with the perceived challenges presented in school leadership positions. The convenience participant selection was used to identify the four principals participating in the study. Three data collection instruments were employed, namely semi structured interviews, open-ended questionnaires and observations. Research results were analysed using critical discourse analysis techniques as the studyprimarily focuses on women in school leadership positions. Research findings suggest that female primary school principals are able, competent and possess the necessary skills to effectively manage and deal with the daily challenges such as managing their schools; its learner’s and staff members. Despite the challenges faced by women primary school principals the study recommends governments and the Department of Education to appoint more women to school leadership positions. With the necessary support, women are capable of transforming and actively contributing to the future of South African schools.