Extent to Which Financial Support from Well-Wishers Assists Heads of Public Secondary Schools to Meet Financial Obligations in Katavi Region Tanzania

Andrew Mwakawenje Abel, Evans Ogoti Okendo
Mwenge Catholic University
Email: abelandrew427@gmail.com

Abstract: This study investigated the extent to which financial support from well-wishers helps the heads of public secondary schools in Katavi Region, Tanzania, to meet financial demands, framed by Resource Mobilization Theory (McCarthy & Zald, 1977). A convergent design within a mixed-methods approach was employed. From the target population of 841, including DSEOs, HOS, SFTs, SBCPs, and teachers. 340 participants were sampled via stratified random, census, criterion, and total population sampling. Data was collected via a questionnaire, interview, and observation guide. Three financial experts in educational planning and administration at MWECAU reviewed the instruments for validation. Pilot testing was done in three schools. The questionnaire’s reliability was confirmed via Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient, yielding scores of 0.983 and 0.959 for TRs and SFTs, respectively. Qualitative data trustworthiness was ensured through triangulation. Quantitative data were analyzed via descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Ethical protocols included securing research clearance, informed consent, and confidentiality. Findings revealed that well-wishers provide financial support to cover ongoing school financial gaps to a low extent. The t-test hypothesis with p =.232 revealed a lack of statistically significant difference in mean score ratings between school finance teachers. This low extent implies that while the support helps to meet some school needs, it is unreliable and cannot substitute for underfunded government provisions. The study concludes that although well-wishers’ support has value, it cannot sustainably support education in the region. It recommends increasing government funding to reduce schools’ reliance on irregular financial support and ensure sustainability.