Leadership Practices and Implementation Challenges of Secondary School Administrators in Drug Prevention Education: A Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

This mixed-methods study explores the leadership practices and challenges encountered by secondary school administrators in implementing drug prevention education in Terengganu, Malaysia. Drawing on Kotter’s Change Management Model, the research utilizes quantitative surveys (n=130) and qualitative interviews (n=23) to evaluate administrator engagement, program strategies, and obstacles to effective prevention. Notably, the results demonstrate that administrators perform strongly in student engagement, program monitoring, resource allocation, and fostering community partnerships. However, staff training emerges as an area in need of further development. To address these gaps, administrators are integrating prevention into the curriculum, building partnerships with agencies and parents, and empowering students to act as peer educators. Furthermore, thematic analysis indicates that successful implementation is driven by holistic, collaborative, and student-centered approaches. Although structured management frameworks contribute to program sustainability, the study acknowledges limitations, including resource constraints and the use of self-reported data. Therefore, it is recommended that schools enhance professional development for staff, broaden stakeholder participation, and implement innovative strategies to strengthen drug prevention efforts. Overall, these actionable findings not only inform policy and practice but also support the creation of safer and healthier school environments through sustained and inclusive prevention initiatives.