Exploring the effects of financial management training on task performance of selected school governing bodies in the Eastern Cape Province

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to explore the effect of financial management training on task performance of selected School Governing Bodies (SGBs) in the JS Skenjana Circuit, Dutywa District in the Eastern Cape Province. The study looked at the extent to which financial management training assisted the SGBs in performing their roles and responsibilities effectively. A qualitative research was employed to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of the members of the SGBs regarding the effects of financial management training on their task performance. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and secondary documents. Respondents were members of the finance committee of the SGBs. The findings of the study show that training offered by the Department of Education (DoE) was inadequate and did not equip the SGBs adequately to manage school funds efficiently and effectively. Members of the SGB did not clearly understand their roles and responsibilities, including the legal framework regulating the management of school finances. This study recommends that the content of training offered to the SGBs should be reviewed to ensure its alignment with the context, roles and responsibilities of this important body. The DoE should use qualified trainers/facilitators and should also provide constant monitoring and support to SGBs. Further, the DoE should provide schools with mentors to support them on the management of finances. The DoE should develop a procurement management system that is evaluated at the level of a circuit and further ensure that all schools have functional procurement committees. Twinning of schools should also be considered to promote partnership and collaboration among schools. This should be done to increase financial prudence and overall school performance. The DoE should develop a financial assessment plan and remedial programmes, to assist schools that are not performing well in the management of finances.