Secondary Education Improvement Project on Educational Outcomes: The Case of Three Senior High Schools in Brongo Ahafo

ABSTRACT

This study examined the influence of the Secondary Educational Improvement Project (SEIP) on educational outcomes in three (3) Senior High Schools in the Brong Ahafo region. Specifically, the study examined the effects of SEIP on enrolment, its influence with regards to academic performance, the challenges facing its implementation and factors essential to its effective implementation. Using a sequential explanatory design, primary data was collected in two phases using semi-structured questionnaire and interview guide. Simple random sampling was resorted to in the selection of the three schools. Purposive sampling was used to select 143 beneficiary students and 1 District SEIP Coordinator whereas census sampling was used to select 3 SEIP Coordinators. Criterion sampling technique was resorted to in the selection of 42 qualified teachers. In all, 189 respondents were sampled. The analysis was done using econometrics techniques to establish the effects of the SEIP programme on educational outcomes. The study revealed that the SEIP policy does not have a significant effect on both academic performance and enrolment. The study revealed the lack of means for verifying the authenticity of socio-economic background of beneficiaries and lack of a proper accountability system. The study concluded by noting that although the results are not consistent with prior expectations, the findings reflect the fact that SEIP started in 2014 and thus it is too early to see its effects. However, the study noted that these results may point to the fact that SEIP alone cannot deliver on important educational outcomes. There is the need to carefully look at the design of future similar SEIP-like programs to encompass other factors that might affect educational outcomes. Among other things, the study recommended a rigorous system of selecting students who are really in need. Also, the study recommended regular monitoring and evaluation from the national office.