The role of parent members of school governing bodies in school financial management
This study reports on the role of Parent Governors in School Financial Management in six high schools situated in Metro South Education District in the Western Cape. The study also explored parental participation in financial processes at school level and its relation to their knowledge, skills, expertise and responsibilities as required by the South African Schools Act. Qualitative data was gathered using interviews with principals, educators and parents, questionnaires were issued to parents with specific and open ended questions and observation. Data analysis was compared within Quintiles and across Quintiles. Major themes that emerged were Financial Documents and processes, Training and Skills, Attitude and the Role of the Principal. Findings revealed that parents lack capacity to manage the funds. Parent governing body members are influenced by a number of factors; Literacy levels, competency, context, work demands, willingness to assist and time. Parents are heavily reliant on educators and the principal in performing the required role. The study concludes that, the parents have a positive attitude towards financial management however they are not skilled and there is no initiative taken by schools to empower the parents. Secondly, there is no significant difference in parental involvement in financial management between a Section 21 and a Section 20 School within and between Quintiles.
Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations