AN ASSESSMENT OF JOB SATISFACTION AMONG TEACHERS IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE WA MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

In Ghana issues regarding job satisfaction and conditions of service among teachers are the main challenges confronting the educational sector. The main objective of this study was to assess job satisfaction among Senior High Schools in the Wa Municipal Assembly. Specifically, the study sought to analyse teacher's knowledge and awareness of their conditions of service, identify the aspects of the job teachers were satisfied or dissatisfied with, the level of job satisfaction and also identify the teacher characteristics influencing job satisfaction. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were used in the analysis of survey data. The results provide that teachers had differences in their background characteristics. Many of the teachers studied were males, married and believe in Islam or Christianity. They have a first degree certificate with only 0.8% of them holding Diploma or Masters Degree. Many teachers were aware of study leave (79.2%), maternity leave (65.6%), and sick leave (67.2) among others; as conditions of services they need to enjoy to remain satisfied. Generally, teachers were satisfied with aspects of the job environment, relationship with stakeholders and leadership style. However, they expressed dissatisfaction with the human resource development aspect of the job and the level of motivation given to them. Level of satisfaction for some indicators as their love and commitment for the job, students and community appreciation of their efforts, were ranked as very satisfactory. Teacher characteristic such as status in school, influence of career choice, relationship with staff and membership of associations had a direct influence on job satisfaction. The results of the study have implications for policy on the management of Senior High Schools. Management should pay attention to teacher characteristics such as status in school, influence of career choice, relationship with staff and membership to associations since they have a direct influence on job satisfaction. Management should provide enabling environment for teachers to access services as maternity and sick leave, promotion, payment of their allowances and facilitation of access to accommodation. The relatively higher level of satisfaction observed among teachers in areas of their performance, relationships and participation in school activities provide a baseline for management effort. Such effort should be scaled up to double teacher satisfaction.