An investigation into leadership role and staff performance in selected technical institutions in Ghana

Abstract

This study was designed to find out the perception of tutors in technical institutions on leadership roles that enhance the effectiveness of the Principal. One hundred and thirty-eight (138) tutors from four technical institutions from four regions in Ghana (Ashanti, Central, greater Accra and Western Regions), running full time and apprenticeship model training programmes, were chosen. The descriptive survey approach was adopted with a purposive sampling method employed in the selection of respondents. Data were obtained through the use of questionnaire and analyzed using frequencies and percentages. The findings indicated that tutors were conversant and strongly agreed that effective leadership was a function of leader qualities and academic qualification. The study revealed negative responses on activities that constituted the Principal’s role as a decision-maker and visionary leader, which suggests the type of leadership style practiced by an autocratic leader. On staff performance, it was found out that most of the teachers were not performing at the appreciable level. From the findings some of the recommendations were; seminars should be organised to equip heads of institutions with the knowledge, competencies and skills that are needed for principals to be effective in achieving targeted institutional goals. Again, tutors should have perceptions of the effectiveness of the principals. Consequently, principal should develop their intellectual capabilities and personal behaviour to enhance their leadership potentials.