The role of the principals in managing conflict in primary schools in Dzindi Circuit in Vhembe Region in the Limpopo Province

Abstract

This study is centred on the role of the principals in managing conflict in primary schools in the Dzindi circuit. Qualitative methods which involved the use of in-depth individual and focus group interviews were used in this study. The study revealed that the main causes of conflict in primary schools arc overcrowding in classroom, management style, misunderstanding. and fear of unknown, monitoring system, lack of school policy and lack of proper channels of communication. The study also revealed that principals have crucial role in managing conflict. They become the mediators and the negotiator in managing conflict and reconcile the parties in the conflict. The principals also emphasised that they prevent conflict by forming syndicates in their schools, encouraging teamwork, avoiding gossip and by being a good Iistener.