CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE AHAFOANO DISTRICT AND ITS IMPLICATIONS ON EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION

ABSTRACT The study investigated conflict management in senior high schools in the Ahafo-Ano District and its implications on educational administration. A sample size of 162 including head teachers and teachers and non-teaching staff were selected for the study. A descriptive survey design was employed which focused on the administering of closed ended questionnaires. The reliability coefficient of the questionnaire was Cronbach Alfa of 0.78. Data was analysed by means of disruptive statistics of frequencies and percentages. The study established that autocratic style of leadership, poor communication, favouritism and power struggle were the main causes of conflicts in senior high schools. The study further revealed that conflicts can result in break in healthy communication, divisiveness and bitterness, finally, the study identified a range of strategies including regular staff meetings, free flow of information and the involvement of all teachers in decision-making which were employed by headmasters to manage conflicts. It is therefore recommended that the Ghana Education Service should organize In-service for teachers and heads of schools on conflict identification and management. Educational administrators should communicate transparently and practice fairness so that they can create trust and good relationships among staff. Finally, Heads should also encourage dialogue between and among conflicting parties.