The Influence of Idea Generation by Non-Teaching Staff on Service Delivery in Secondary Schools in Embu County

Abstract

The engagement of the non-teaching staff in secondary schools is expected to contribute to effective service delivery. However, in Kenyan secondary schools, poor service delivery continues to be reported despite the critical role the non-teaching staff play in school development. The main focus of the study was on the effect of idea generation by the non-teaching staff on service delivery in secondary schools in Embu County. Adopting a cross-sectional survey research design, and grounded on pragmatist philosophy, the study employed a mixed-methods approach. The target population included 1,803 non-teaching staff, 208 principals, and 208 Board of Management (BoM) chairpersons. Stratified and proportionate systematic sampling ensured representative selection across school categories and sub-counties. A sample size of 337 respondents was achieved with 10 principals selected from 5 sub-counties, 10 BoM chairs from 5 sub-counties and 317 non-teaching staff from 140 secondary schools. The study utilized questionnaire tools on the non-teaching staff, an interview guide on principals and focused group discussions for the BoMs. Validity and reliability of the instruments were confirmed through construct, content, and face validity, and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation), and correlation analysis for quantitative data; and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Results were presented using tables, and themes. The results indicated that idea generation was low with key barriers including fear and intimidation, poor communication channels, lack of confidence and low self-esteem, lack of opportunities and platforms, and resource constraints. However, drivers such as effective communication, inclusive leadership, recognition, collaborative leadership, regular staff development forums and training emerged as essential for fostering innovative work behaviour, trickling down to enhanced service delivery by non-teaching staff. The study concluded that there is a positive and significant relationship between idea generation and service delivery in secondary schools in Embu County. The study recommends that school management, led by principals and supported by Boards of Management (BoM), establish structured and inclusive platforms for harnessing idea generation among non-teaching staff in secondary schools.