Determinants of strategic plan implementation in public secondary schools in Katulani sub-county, Kitui County

Abstract

Purpose: This study sought to find out determinants of implementation of strategic plans in public secondary schools in Katulani sub-county, Kitui County. The focus was on resource allocation, government involvement, communication and motivation of employees in relation to implementation of strategic plans in public secondary schools in Katulani sub-county. The study was guided by four objectives based on the said determinants. This study was guided by four theories which include; resource-based theory, stakeholders’ theory, hierarchy of needs theory and contingency theory. Methodology: The study employed descriptive survey design to investigate the determinants that influence implementation of strategic plan. The research involved 105 respondents. Data was collected through questionnaires. The data collected was analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques with the help of Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS 16.0 version). The data was presented by use of percentages, bar graphs, pie charts and frequency distribution tables. Qualitative data was analyzed through content analysis and in the course of the research, ethical consideration was observed. Findings: The findings of the study indicated that resource allocation, government involvement, communication and motivation of employees among other factors play a very important role in the implementation of strategic plans in public secondary schools in Katulani sub-county. Therefore, the study concluded that more efforts are required to improve on resource allocation, government involvement, communication and motivation of employees in relation to implementation of strategic plans in public secondary schools in Katulani sub-county. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommended the following:-the leadership or administration of pubic secondary schools should consider possible ways of ensuring optimum allocation of the resource available as well enhancing effective communication and motivation of employees. These should be considered in the formulation of strategic plans for best achievement of institutional goals and objectives. The study recommends use of the three theories used because they are still relevant hence applicable in similar studies in the future. The foundation provided by the three theories guided in the extraction of the concepts tested in this study. The study recommends further assessment of the influence of parental involvement and local political leaders on strategic plan implementation in public secondary schools. Other areas for further research include assessing the impact of strategic planning in public secondary schools in terms of performance at the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education.