Question 4: How can the current selection procedures for appointing HODs be improved?
5.6 Conclusion
This chapter has summarised the findings and recommendations given by the respondents. Suggestions to the study were made. In short, it transpired from this study that the principals surveyed could appreciate it if they are fully involved in the selection process. I think their full involvement will enable the determination of the comprehensive job description. The job description, which will focus on the needs of the school. The job descriptions that will provide complete and realistic information to scale down the applicants' expectations (Gerber, Nel and van Dyk, 1999).
The study has found that although there were selection guidelines to assist the selectors, dispute were declared in some instances in the KwaNdengezi Circuit of the KwaZulu- Natal Department of Education and Culture. This shows that the selection criteria, provided in the KZN HRM Circular, against which the candidates are matched, are not adequate enough to ensure fairness in selection. I think the selection criteria based on the job description and the involvement of expert and competent selectors will reduce the disputes. If the School Governing Bodies were trained through workshops to conduct the interviews, it goes without saying that workshops were not adequate enough to empower the selectors.
According to the findings the best candidate for the post is the person who meets the minimum requirements for the post. However, the minimum qualification and experience alone cannot guarantee excellent work performance. Efficient staff must characterize effective schools. The efficient staff who, according to Swanepoel et. al. (2000), have the
necessary potential, competencies and traits to fill job needs and to assist the organisation in achieving its objectives. The schools tend to be the sinking organizations just because of the people they select as the best people for the job. Thus competency approach in selection is recommended.
The study revealed that the appointment procedures are dominated by favouritism and nepotism. If this allegations of 'favouritism and nepotism', claimed to be practiced by the selectors, can be investigated in the KwaNdengezi Circuit of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education and Culture and confirmed as realistic; how can the schools get good leaders when promotions are based on patronage (Ditshego, 1997). It is suggested that the selection procedures be reviewed. I also support Eder and Ferris' (1989) idea that
"more research is needed to develop interviewing practices that improve job relatedness and reduce subjectivity. A better understanding is needed concerning the process and contextual factors that produce unfair bias, and how interview can be designed to diminish bias " (1989: 72).
As long as conflict over selection decisions are not thoroughly investigated to get the cause and effects, they will always occur.
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APPENDIX A P.O. Box 23721
Isipingo 4110
3 March 2003 The Regional Chief Director
Durban-South Region
Department of Education and Culture Private Bag x 54330
Durban 4000 Dear Sir
APPLICATION FOR ACCEPTANCE TO CONDUCT A RESEARCH
I am a M. Ed. Student at the University of Natal doing research methods. I request that I be permitted to conduct research in 5 primary schools of KwaNdengezi Circuit. I also request the permission to communicate with the Pinetown District Office and the Regional Office in this regard.
The research will investigate the selection and appointment of educators to the position of Head of Department in primary schools in the KwaNdengezi Circuit of the KwaZulu Department of Education and Culture.
You^faithfully
Ro^fhandiwe Gumede
DURBAN SOUTH REGION
Address: Malgate Building Ikheli: 72 Stanger Street Adres: Durban
4001
ISIFUNDA SASENINGIZIMU NETHEKU
Private Bag : Private Bag X54330 Isikhwama Seposi: Durban
Privaatsak: 4000
Enquiries: Reference:
imibuzo : D M- Moodlcy Inkomba:
Navrae: (031) 327-0481/551 Verwysing:
Fax:(031) 3686400
DURBAN SU.U UT.ICt
Telephone: (031) 3270911 Ucingo:
Telefoon:
Fax:(031)3270244 Date:
Usuku:
Datum: 2003-04-04
B
Rose Thandiwe Gumede P.O. Box 23721
Isipingo 4110
PERMISSION TO CONDUCT RESEARCH IN SCHOOLS IN THE DURBAN SOUTH REGION
Your letter dated 3 March 2003 in respect of the above matter refers.
Kindly be informed that permission is hereby granted for you to conduct research in schools in the Durban South Region subject to the following:
1. The schools which participate in the project would do so on a voluntary basis.
2. Access to the schools you wish to utilise is negotiated with the principal concerned by yourself.
3. The normal teaching and learning programme is not to be disrupted.
4. The confidentiality of the participants is respected.
5. A copy of the thesis/research is lodged with the Acting Regional Senior Manager through my office on completion of your studies.
I wish you success with your research.
Kind regards.