From Maintenance Gaps to Financing Strategies: Managing School Facilities in a Developing Country

Abstract

Purpose

Financing facilities management practices in public education facilities is a major challenge in the global south. The study assesses facilities management practice and its financing models in senior high schools in Northern Ghana.

Methodology

A qualitative research approach was adopted. Given the nature of facilities management, 15 public senior high schools in Northern Ghana were selected. Structured observation and thematic analysis were employed to understand the nature of facilities management practices and the financing models adopted in these schools.

Findings

The study categorized facilities management challenges in two broad ways: the overall lack of facilities management units in senior high schools in Northern Ghana and financial constraints. The conceptualization of financing options was contextualized in terms of domestic revenue mobilization, community support and government allocations. Introducing domestic revenue approaches served the purposes of minor facilities management services. At the same time, community support in the form of contributions from old student unions and Parent–Teacher Associations preceded charitable donations as a major source of funding.

Practical Implications

The study advocates for the establishment of facilities management units in senior high schools. This will ensure adequate facilities management practices that provide a conducive environment for teaching and learning. In terms of financing, leveraging domestic revenue mobilization will serve as short-term support for facilities management in senior high schools.

Originality

The study contributes to enriching the scope of facilities management practices financing in senior high schools. Away from conventional financing, conceptualizing financing options will serve as a blueprint to facilitate the activities of facilities management in other educational institutions, thereby enhancing teaching and learning.