Parent governors’ experiences of financial management at Umbumbulu District.

Abstract

The South African Schools Act 84 of 1996 requires School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to take responsibility for the management of school finances. However, research has revealed that many SGB members in South African schools lack the necessary knowledge and financial skills to manage the school’s finances effectively and efficiently. This qualitative case study explored the experiences of primary school parent governors in financial management in Umlazi District within the Umbumbulu Circuit. The study was conducted within the interpretivist paradigm and underpinned by participatory democracy theory. Data were gathered using semi-structured interviews with three participants who were purposefully selected from three primary schools in the Umbumbulu district. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse data. Findings reveal that the finance committees lack the necessary training that helps with an understanding of their roles and responsibilities in financial management; thus, support should be provided in ensuring that they understand their duties. It is therefore recommended that the Department of Education and other relevant educational authorities provide the necessary training and support to SGB members in schools to enhance their financial knowledge and skills. This can be done through workshops, seminars, and policy training programmes specifically designed to meet the needs of parent governors in financial management. Furthermore, the government should allocate sufficient funds to assist schools in improving their financial systems, including providing resources and tools for effective financial management.