Challenges Facing Secondary School Teachers in Achieving Effective Job Performance: A Case Study of Meru District Council, Arusha Region

This study examines the challenges facing secondary school teachers in executing their duties for effective job performance through a qualitative case study design. The study participants were secondary school teachers, heads of schools, and the District Education Officer. A total of 111 respondents were involved, including 100 teachers, 10 heads of schools, and 1 District Education Officer. In collecting data, interview and focus group discussion (FGD) methods of data collection were used for the purpose of this study. The data were analyzed through content and thematic analysis. The study found teachers are burdened with several challenges, including but not limited to an unfriendly working environment, a shortage of teaching and learning materials, low achievement of students in science subjects, poor cooperation between parents and teachers, poor cooperation accorded by employers, a lack of overtime and/or housing allowances, and political influences on teaching and learning processes. The study concluded that teaching, apart from being a noble profession that prepares not only leaders but also champions of various fields, has grown to be forgotten. Thus, it is recommended that there are significant needs to shift priorities and attention towards the teaching profession. One key aspect highlighted is the need for better compensation and entitlements for teachers, including salaries, subsistence allowances, extra-time allowances, and access to teaching and learning materials. Moreover, addressing these challenges requires comprehensive support and tailored interventions from educational institutions, policymakers, and other stakeholders in the education sector.