Exploring leadership challenges in implementing inclusive education in Effutu Municipality

Abstract

In an era where the development of a people and nation rests largely on education, the need for everybody to be educated cannot be overemphasized. This makes the concept of inclusive education gain much prominence in recent times. It is important to note that a relatively emerging phenomenon like inclusive education is likely to be met with setbacks in its implementation. This study therefore sought to explore the challenges that educational leaders face in implementing inclusive education. The case study approach was used in undertaking this study, which employed interviews and questionnaires as methods for data collection. The study engaged headteachers and teachers from 6 basic schools and GES officials in the Effutu Municipality. The sample size was 37 (6 headteachers, 27 teachers and 4 GES officials) and was sampled purposively. Data was gathered through a face-to-face interaction between the researcher and participants. Data gathered was analysed through the manual generation of codes and themes. The study revealed that participants were knowledgeable of the concept of inclusive education and held diverse perceptions about its implementation. Support was found to be available to schools for implementing inclusive education, largely in the form of human resources. The implementation of inclusive education was found to be faced with several challenges, all related to resource constraints, key among them being financial constraints. Based on the findings, it was recommended that attention be paid to provision of resources needed for effective implementation of inclusive education, training of human resources and collaboration among stakeholders.