Influence of Leadership Styles on the Success of Secondary Education in Africa : A Case Study Of Nigeria and South Africa

This study investigated the role of principals in curbing the high failure rates experienced in rural-based high schools in selected African nations. The qualitative method was adopted for data collection through the use of semi-structured interviews which were conducted for two principals, two vice principals and 8 teachers from two selected high schools across two African countries: South Africa and Nigeria. The finding of the study shows that among others, the politicization of leadership positions, and the adopted leadership styles of principals affect learners' learning abilities. The study recommends that eclectic leadership styles should be encouraged, and principalship should be on merit.