Effects of corporate governance practices on resource management among public secondary schools in Zambia

This study investigated the effects of corporate governance practices on resource management among public secondary schools in Zambia, aiming to identify how specialization, accountability, and transparency influenced operational efficiency. The specific objectives included examining the effect of specialization on resource management among public secondary schools; assessing the effect of accountability on resource management among public secondary schools; establishing the effect of transparency on resource management among public secondary schools; and exploring the influence of specialization, accountability, and transparency on resource management among public secondary schools. A mixed-method research design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews with school administrators and teachers in selected public secondary schools. The study findings revealed a significant lack of qualified personnel in critical administrative roles, particularly in Accounts and Procurement, which hampered effective resource management. Additionally, while schools demonstrated strong accountability in reporting academic performance; financial oversight remained inadequate, with low rates of income and inventory reporting. Transparency issues were also identified, particularly regarding the communication of job vacancies and audited financial reports. In conclusion, the study emphasized the need for systemic reforms to enhance educational governance and operational effectiveness. Key recommendations included recruiting specialized staff, implementing robust accountability measures, strengthening transparency in communication, fostering stakeholder involvement, and adopting holistic governance frameworks.