Assessing Professional Development Needs: A Study on Head Teachers' Competencies for Effective School Management in Niger State
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37134/esss.vol6.1.2.2025Keywords:
Professional Development, Head Teachers, School Management, Needs Assessment, Educational LeadershipAbstract
This research addresses the growing need for effective leadership in basic schools in Niger State, where head teachers play a pivotal role in influencing educational outcomes. The study identifies essential professional development skills for head teachers to enhance their management capabilities. Utilising a descriptive survey design based on Borich’s needs assessment model, data were collected from 1,113 head teachers and 28 educational lecturers through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The research findings revealed that competencies in staff personnel management and curriculum implementation were critically important, with mean ratings indicating they were "Highly Needed." Specific gaps were identified in areas such as designing professional development activities and fostering innovative instructional practices among staff. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted professional development programs tailored to the specific requirements of head teachers. The study concludes that equipping head teachers with relevant skills through continuous professional development is vital for fostering effective school management and improving student performance. By offering empirical insights into the professional development needs of head teachers in Niger State, this research informs policymakers and educational institutions about critical areas for investment in training initiatives, ultimately aiming to enhance educational leadership and the overall quality of education in the region.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Moses Adeleke Adeoye, Sabina Nwakaego Obi, Tinuke Bilikis IBRAHIM-RAJI, Ajoke Kudirat Yahaya
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