Staffing and pupil’s academic performance in Universal Primary Education schools in Gombe Sub-County, Wakiso District

Abstract

This study established the relationship between staffing and pupils’ academic performance in Universal Primary Education schools in Gombe Sub county Wakiso District; Specific objectives of the study where; to establish the relationship between staff development and pupils’ academic performance in UPE schools in Gombe Sub county, to establish how working conditions of teachers influence pupils’ academic performance in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools in Gombe Sub county, and to assess how remuneration of teachers affects pupils’ academic performance in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools in Gombe Sub county. The study adopted a descriptive study design with a quantitative research approach. The study population involved teachers, head teachers and district officials. A total population of 340, respondents was selected and a sample of 207 was used. The study used questionnaires and an interview guide to collect data. Data was coded and later processed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) computer program. From the study it was revealed that regular staff re-training and development enhances teacher’s skills and motivation thus leading to a better performance of pupils. It was also concluded that working conditions contribute greatly to teachers’ performance. This can be seen from the school providing fair housing facilities, midday meals, health services, provision of scholastic materials.It was further concluded that remuneration of teachers such as salary, allowances, and insurance packages when given lead to a better performance of pupils. The study makes the following recommendations: It is recommended that there should be continual staff development especially in the new pedagogical approaches. It is also recommended that the government should improve the working conditions of teachers by providing more housing facilities, midday meals, scholastic materials, and health services. It is also recommended that teacher’s remunerations be considered. This can be through, increasing salaries annually, giving allowances and insurance packages in relation to the teachers’ qualifications.