EFFECTS OF TEACHERS ABSENTEEISM ON THE STUDENTS PERFORMANCE AT OYIBI PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL IN THE KPONG KANTAMANSO MUNICIPALITY IN THE GREATER ACCRA REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

Teacher absenteeism has a wide and influential effect on a country’s educational system. High levels of absenteeism negatively impact student achievement, tarnishes the school
reputation, contributes to the decline of the profession and precipitates in turn student
absenteeism. UWEZO (2011), reported that widespread teacher absenteeism is generally acknowledged as a major obstacle to the effective and sustainable improvements of the
country’s education system.The report further highlighted that high rates of teacher
absenteeism makes it is difficult for children to learn consistently and build on their skills
throughout the school year.The general objective of the study is to examine the effects of
teacher absenteeism on academic performance of students in the Oyibi Presbyterian School in Kpong Kantamanso Municipal Assembly (KKMA) . The study was descriptive study in nature. It employed both qualitative and quantitative approach methods. The total population for the study in the Oyibi Presbyterian Junior High School is 204. This population comprises both the teachers and the students. There are 18 teachers and 186 students. The analyses
involved the use of tables, graphs and charts. The findings from this study have revealed that
teachers’ absenteeism is caused by a number of factors including family and social
responsibilities; poor work conditions; poor health and lack of accommodation. The study has also revealed the extent to which teachers’ absenteeism affects syllabus coverage in schools and assessed teachers’ absenteeism affects students’ academic performance in schools.The main recommendation of the study was that teachers should be highly motivated by
providing incentives to increase regular attendance, revising absenteeism-conducive policies, and promoting a positive work environment.