Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess the gap of community participation on the five year
growth and transformation plan (GTP) I. in the education sector of Gedeo zone (SNNPRS) in Ethiopia
in 2015/16. A cross-sectional research design was used to address these objectives. The population
were staffs in nine elementary and three high schools in three out of seven Gedeo zone Woredas
(provinces). The participants were teachers, principals, students and parents and non-parents as the
community representatives. The Woredas in the zone were deliberately selected. This study has
revealed that more than 80 percent of participants have reported that they do have the awareness about
GTP and there exist the plan in schools; in addition 83 percent of the respondents agreed that there is
no considerable gap between the GTP statements regarding community participation and the actual
performance of schools but teachers and supervisors were better participants. Moreover, 60 percent of
the respondents stated that some leadership styles; high teachers turnover were among challenges; on
the other hand good relationship between staff members and students; better resource allocation were
good opportunities to achieve better community participation in schools; continuous discussion about
the usefulness and implementation of GTP with the community, and inspirational and participatory
leadership and sharing responsibilities had become the intention or implication of the majority
participants to achieve GTP two in a better way
