Abstract
In South Africa, various sectors, including education, have been characterised by unethical leadership evidenced by widespread corruption, lack of moral norms in procedures, and inadequate emphasis on ethical standards of performance or behaviour. Deficits in ethical leadership in the educational sector are well-reported and are represented by problems in organisational efficiency, mismanagement and even corruption. This study reports on an inquiry into ethical leadership and transparency and their impact on school leadership in two secondary schools located within the Ekurhuleni District of the Gauteng Province. The research question that gave direction to this study was centred around how ethical leadership and transparency are practised by school leaders in two secondary schools. Using qualitative research within an interpretivist paradigm and a case study design, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with various school leaders. These school leaders consisted of deputy heads of school, heads of departments, academic administrators, a school counsellor and post-level 1 teachers. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 crisis, both principals were unable to be present for the online interview, despite numerous attempts to reschedule. From the findings, three themes emerged that focused on the conceptualisation of ethical leadership: the role of ethical leaders in secondary schools and transparency as an essential component of leadership. It was revealed that school leaders do not have sound conceptualisation of ethical leadership, but rather relied on a basic understanding of what is right and wrong. What was also discovered is that many school leaders felt that the disadvantaged and disenfranchised learners at a school do not require a deliberate focus, but that they should rather be treated equally as part of the school community. This related to the plight of those suffering from poverty, unemployment or adverse situations beyond the learners’ control. The findings also presented the idea that trust and respect can by symbiotic: it is important for an ethical leader to be respectful and trustworthy so they gain respect and trust from their peers or employees. Finally, the study stressed the importance of transparency in secondary schools, specifically in drafting and implementing budgets, decision-making and policies of accountability. In order to ensure that transparency is present in all aspects related to school matters, school leaders need to vi create structures (committees), policies and processes that specifically deal with transparency and how it will be enforced.
M.Ed. (Educational Leadership and Management)