Exploring the views of teachers on teacher absenteeism and its effects on academic work in west a circuit in Bolgatanga Municipality in the Upper East Region

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the views of teachers on teacher absenteeism and its effects on academic work in West A Circuit in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region of Ghana. A qualitative research approach, specifically case study was employed for the study. An interview guide was used to gather data from teachers in West A Circuit in the Bolgatanga Municipality. A total of 20 teachers were selected for the study using purposive sampling technique. Data collected through the in-depth individual interviews was analyzed based on the research questions. Findings from the study revealed that posting teachers to schools that are far from the residence of the teacher, difficulty in getting means of transportation to school, inadequate teacher accommodation in schools, inadequate supervision by circuit supervisors and inadequate teaching and learning materials are the major causes of teacher absenteeism in West A Circuit. With the effects of teacher absenteeism, the absentee teacher could not cover the scheme of work planned for each term and subsequently, the syllabus for the entire year and this translates into poor student performance in tests and examinations. Also, there is more workload on the regular teachers and student indiscipline leading to waywardness with bad character and morals. It is recommended that the Bolgatanga Municipal Education Directorate should consult teachers to see if they have genuine cases with regards to distance before postings. The circuit supervisor should endeavor to pay regular visits to the schools within his or her Circuit to deter teachers from absenting themselves and assist teachers in need of help. The Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly should ensure that provision is made for teachers’ accommodation in schools and adequate teaching and learning materials for effective lesson delivery.