Abstract:
Financial Mismanagement in selected public boarding secondary schools threatens their ability to operate effectively and provide essential services. This study, titled Examining Factors Associated with Financial Mismanagement in selected Public Boarding Secondary Schools in South East Education Division, explores the key contributors to financial mismanagement within the region. The research aimed to identify common financial challenges, assess the effectiveness of current financial management practices, and propose solutions to improve accountability and sustainability.
The study was conducted in 12 public boarding secondary schools, focusing on school administrators, finance officers, student representatives, and division officials responsible for financial oversight. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys and interviews to gather insights. Structured questionnaires were distributed to school staff, while in-depth interviews were conducted with school heads, governance body chairpersons, and division finance officers.
The findings indicate that financial mismanagement in these schools is largely driven by delayed fee payments, irregular bursary disbursements, and insufficient government funding. Weak financial oversight has also contributed to schools accumulating debt, often due to reliance on credit purchases and ineffective budgeting. Schools that fail to enforce financial discipline struggle with operational challenges, while those that adopt strict financial measures tend to remain stable.
Some schools have successfully avoided debt by implementing a cash-purchase system, pre-purchasing food supplies, and reducing reliance on middlemen. The active involvement of student councils in monitoring resource usage, energy conservation measures, and the use of borehole water have also proven to be effective cost-saving strategies. Additionally, internal auditors and division-level accounts personnel play a vital role in ensuring financial compliance and preventing mismanagement.
To improve financial stability, the study recommends strengthening internal controls, enforcing timely bursary disbursements, and training school administrators in financial management. By adopting these strategies, public boarding schools in the South East Education Division can enhance transparency and maintain sustainable financial operations.
