Policy and Administrative Practices – A Study of District Education Officers

Abstract

The role of District Education Officers has been redefined due to the rapid growth in technology and new trends in education. The study was carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to compare institutional policies with the actual practices of the District Education Officers to identify gaps for remedial solutions. District Education Officers (male and female) were included in the study. In addition, four provincial-level officers were chosen as key informants for interviews. The data were analyzed and interpreted by statistical instruments. The gaps between policies and practices of District Education Officers that emerged from the study included a need for more in-service training in Computer Literacy, Office Management, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Planning & Development, and Communication Skills. The study also found a need for more awareness of District Education Officers about the policies. In order to fill up the gaps, the study recommended that the officers involved in formulating, implementing, and evaluating policies should be trained to develop their knowledge and skills in the relevant area.