Female leadership and school effectiveness in junior high schools in Ghana

Purpose ‐ The purpose of this research is to examine female principal leadership practices that are considered crucial in the effectiveness and improvement of schools and school administration in Ghanaian junior high schools. Design/methodology/approach ‐ The study was qualitative and interpretive. Five principals of junior high schools were interviewed, their schools observed over a period of three months, and schools' records examined. Findings ‐ The schools had shared visions and missions that were well articulated by the principals and other stakeholders. The principals created a work environment that encouraged creative thinking; designed and implemented new and cutting edge programs; and challenged the status quo. Research limitations/implications ‐ As a male researching into female leadership, the researcher's gender might influence some of the findings. The sample size is not large enough for any meaningful generalization to be made beyond similar context and geographical contexts. Practical implications ‐ The female principals were transformational leaders, a leadership style demanded in organizations during the twenty-first century. Originality/value ‐ At the time that this research was conducted, it was the first study on female principal leadership in junior high schools in Ghana.