Retention practices in education human resources management

Abstract

The public education system in South Africa, particularly in public schools, faces serious problems. The review of retention practices for teachers is premised on the principles of quality management which aim at continual increase of the accountability in education human resources management. This research revealed that the tenure process applied to teachers in public schools is weak and plunges the education system to an all-time low. The use of the suggested model is a combination of business principles and public service management principles based on legal and statutory provision. An increase in customer satisfaction is necessary. The strength of the argument is the reference to law education management theories and the involvement of unions. However, it is acknowledged that review of the retention practices alone cannot be a panacea to the crisis in education. Aspects of professionalism are alluded to and the essential role of the South African Council for Educators is also considered as well as that of the Committee for Teacher Education Policy. The notion of quality requires a rigorous effort and cautious and calculated initiatives to interrogate problems and issues in education human resources management. In conclusion, recommendations and reasons are suggested why a review of retention practices is necessary.


(South African Journal of Education: 2002 22(4): 332-337)