LEADERSHIP STYLES IN TVET COLLEGES OF SIDAMA REGIONAL STATE

<strong>ABSTRACT: </strong>The main purpose of this study was to assess practices of leadership styles in TVET colleges of Sidama regional state. To achieve this purpose the study employed explanatory sequential research design. From the total population 4 TVET colleges, 12 TVET college deans &amp; vice deans, 172 instructors and 171 administrative officers were sampled. TVET colleges, instructors and administrative officers were selected by using simple random sampling techniques. College deans were selected by using comprehensive sampling method. Quantitative data were collected from instructors and administrative officers by using questionnaires and qualitative data was collected from college deans and vice deans by using semi- structured interview . SPSS (statistical package for social sciences) version 23 was used for data analysis. Quantitative data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics (i.e. percentage, mean and standard deviation and inferential statistics (i.e. independent sample ttest). On the other hand qualitative data was analyzed by content analysis approach. Study revealed that Unwise interference of higher officials in the functions of college leaders, lack of adequate training towards college leadership and management and Lack of regular supervisory support from the concerned education in the college were first three challenges that hinder effectiveness of leadership style in the study area. Based on these findings higher official from different government administration should stop negative interference on the colleges management without request of colleges; adequate training should be given for stakeholders of colleges on the leadership and management; and high commitment on facility provision, supervision on learning process and cooperation work with staff should be given.