THE ROLE OF INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS AMONG OPINION LEADERS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF KINTAMPO NORTH MUNICIPALITY

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study is to examine the role of interpersonal relationship among opinion leaders in the development of education in the Kintampo North Municipality with the purpose of identifying the factors militating against interpersonal relationship and finding amicable solutions for the improvement of education. Also, the purpose is to find out whether the role of interpersonal relationship among opinion leaders positively or adversely affecting the development of education in Kintampo North Municipality. A sample size of 30, involving 20 teachers, four clergy and six traditional leaders were selected using purposive sampling which is a nonrandom sampling technique from Kintampo North Municipality. Question and interview guides were used to solicit data from the participants selected. Four research questions were set. The data was analyzed manually by using case-study located within the interpretive-qualitative framework. Data was prepared across the respondents, immersed, transcribed, themes generated and described. The result informed us that a tripartite model of relationship were used to find amicable solution to disunity among opinion leaders. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were the data collection instruments used. The researcher has also explained the research process, research paradigms, choice of methods and the actual direction of the study. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that interpersonal relationship among opinion leaders and community development should be captured in the national education curriculum and be taught in school starting from the Junior High Schools.