Strategic planning in schools in Kenya: possibilities and challenges

Abstract

This article discusses a study that sought to find out how two secondary schools in Kenya have engaged in strategic planning. It aimed to explore the factors that have facilitated some schools to successfully engage in this process, while others fail. The study employed a qualitative multiple case design and engaged 47 participants. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Findings revealed that a number of factors either facilitated or hindered the study schools' engagement in strategic planning: knowledge and awareness of strategic planning, leadership styles, financial resources, training and professional support. Further, school leaders experienced challenges with the strategic planning process, thereby raising the question of the effectiveness of strategic planning as a planning and management tool in the context of study. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of the study's findings for the successful implementation of strategic planning in schools.