Overview of the Holistic Role of Principals of Rural Secondary Schools in South Africa

The role of principals is crucial in ensuring overall successof schools. In most cases, the success or failure of students in terminal examination is attributed to the principals and teachers. Hence, this study explores the role of principals in secondary schools situated in rural communitiesvia the review method. For this purpose, relevant literature was reviewed. The findings revealed that the role of principals in rural secondary schools in South Africa isas crucial as expected from school principals in other similar contexts.They are majorly saddled with eight (8) responsibilities which include to: lead teaching and learning, shape the direction and development of the school, manage quality and secure accountability, develop, and empower self as well as others, manage school as an organization, work with and for the community, manage staff members of the school, and manage and promote co-curricular activities. The findings also revealed that the principals of rural secondary schools in South Africa faced various challenges and find it difficult to discharge their duties as expected. Some of the challenges include lack of resources in schools, quality of teaching staff, and professional development opportunities for rural secondary school principals. The study recommends that rural secondary school principals in South Africa should be well trained through periodic workshops and seminars. Also, considering their location, they should be motivated and encouraged to acquire more knowledge by enrolling for courses that will give them the needed skills and qualifications.         Keywords: leadership, principal, rural secondary school, South Africa (SA)