Enhancing community engagement in conflict resolution among secondary school students in Sumbawanga Municipal Council, Tanzania

Edmund Mwanawima; Salvatory F. Mhando; Simion K. Ambakisye

doi:10.51867/ajernet.6.4.85

Authors

Edmund Mwanawima
tumfuateyesu@gmail.com
University of Iringa, Tanzania
Salvatory F. Mhando University of Iringa, Tanzania https://orcid.org/0009-0006-8543-7632
Simion K. Ambakisye University of Iringa, Tanzania https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8409-1250

Keywords:

Community Engagement, Conflict Resolution, Secondary Schools Students, Sumbawanga Municipal Council, Tanzania

Abstract

This study examined the enhancement of community engagement in conflict resolution among secondary schools’ students in Sumbawanga Municipal Council. Specifically, the study focused on identifying the conflict resolution strategies utilized by the community in addressing conflicts, assessing the role of local community leaders in conflict resolution, and exploring the impact of community involvement on students’ academic performance. The study employed Social Capital Theory (SCT). A qualitative approach utilizing case study design was utilized. The target population included students (class monitors), discipline teachers, and community leaders, from whom 20 participants were picked purposively for interviews. Further, data were thematically analyzed. The findings revealed mediation, counseling, and dialogue were commonly used by the community to resolve student conflicts. Moreover, local leaders played a pivotal role in promoting peace and restoring relationships as well as strengthening collaboration among students at schools. On top of that, it was demonstrated that active community participation in conflict resolution positively influenced students’ academic performance, as a conducive learning environment with fewer disruptions encouraged discipline. The study concludes that sustainability of conflict resolution requires active participation of competent stakeholders alongside school management. The study recommends strengthening school-community partnerships, capacity-building for community leaders for conflict management and policy support for community participation in academic settings.

Dimensions

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