Abstract:
The purpose of this article is to report the findings of the study that investigated
the causes of conflict in the township secondary schools – as viewed by the
deputy principals. A questionnaire was developed and six deputy principals from
six secondary schools of the Lejweleputswa district completed it. Data analysis
was mainly qualitative, with numbers and tables used to enhance the qualitative
understanding. It was found that the shortage of resources, poor communication
and taking care of learners of absent teachers were the major causes of conflict
in the schools surveyed. The conclusion was that conflict existed in the township
secondary schools, and that the shortage of resources and teacher absenteeism
played a major role in teacher conflict. It was recommended that the use of
available resources be properly monitored, and that stress and conflict
management sessions be introduced for teachers.
