Challenges Faced by Head Teachers in Supporting Low-Income Students in Public Primary Schools in Tarime Town Council, Mara, Tanzania

Abstract

This study examined the challenges facing head teachers in supporting low-income students in Tarime Town Council. The study used a constructivist research philosophy and employed a qualitative research approach to collect qualitative data.  The target population consisted of head teachers and students, with a sample of 42 respondents selected through a combination of stratified random sampling and purposive sampling techniques.  Data collection tools were interviews and focus group discussions for head teachers and students. Trustworthiness criteria of credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability were considered.  Qualitative data from interviews and FGD were analysed using thematic analysis. The analysis identified the most significant challenges facing head teachers in supporting low-income students in schools as:  a lack of financial capacity, a shortage of qualified teachers, an increased enrollment of students in schools, political interference in management and decision-making, and a lack of parental cooperation. To improve the communication practices, head teachers should strengthen community engagement by building strong relationships with educational stakeholders.