Navigating Divergence: Human Resource Management Challenges in Public vs. Private Secondary Schools in Lagos State

Human Resources Management (HRM) in secondary schools serves as an essential element in the formation of the educational scenario, particularly in the state of Lagos, where public and private institutions face different challenges that influence their HR practices and general effectiveness. HRM covers the recruitment, development and strategic retention of essential personnel to offer quality education. In the context of public secondary schools, HRM is often hampered by bureaucratic restrictions, including strict personnel policies and financing limitations imposed by government budgets. These challenges can lead to difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified educators, as salary structures and professional development opportunities are often less competitive compared to the private sector. On the other hand, private secondary schools usually enjoy greater autonomy in their HR decisions and practices, allowing them to implement more flexible personnel models and competitive remuneration packages. This autonomy facilitates a more personalized approach to hiring, often allowing these institutions to attract high -caliber educators who contribute to higher academic results. Key words: Human Resource Management, Secondary schools, recruitment, public & private institutions, quality education,