IJECE Published Articles

Abstract Instructional leadership plays a central role in improving teaching quality and student learning outcomes in schools. School principals are expected to guide curriculum implementation, support teachers, and ensure that resources and technology are effectively utilized to enhance instructional delivery. Despite these responsibilities, many school leaders encounter various challenges that influence their capacity to perform these roles effectively. This study examined the instructional leadership challenges experienced by school principals, focusing on three key domains: curriculum management, resource allocation, and technology integration. A quantitative research approach using a descriptive survey design was employed. Data were collected from thirty school principals who had passed the National Qualifying Examination for School Heads and were currently serving in public elementary and secondary schools. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary instrument for data collection. The instrument demonstrated strong reliability with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.91. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, were utilized to determine the extent of leadership challenges. Inferential statistical tests such as t-test and analysis of variance were conducted to examine differences in the level of challenges when grouped according to selected profile variables, including age, sex, years of experience, educational attainment, and school size. The findings revealed that principals experienced slight challenges in curriculum management, resource allocation, and technology integration. Most demographic variables did not significantly influence the level of instructional leadership challenges encountered by principals. However, school size showed a significant relationship with technology integration challenges, indicating that principals managing larger schools experienced greater difficulty in implementing digital initiatives. The results suggest that while school leaders demonstrate resilience in managing instructional responsibilities, structural constraints such as limited resources and technological infrastructure remain key concerns. Strengthening institutional support systems, providing targeted professional development, and improving access to technological resources may enhance the effectiveness of instructional leadership in schools. Keywords: Instructional Leadership, School Principals, Curriculum Management, Resource Allocation, Technology Integration, Educational Leadership, School Administration, Instructional Supervision