LEADERSHIP STYLES AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF PUPILS IN SELECTED PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS: A CASE OF SELECTED SCHOOLS IN JINJA, UGANDA

In a bid to address poor academic performance among students in Jinja City primary schools, this study looked into how students' was affected by school leadership styles within the theoretical framework of Path-Goal theory leadership. The goals were to: 1) comprehend laissez-faire style affects performance; 2) examine authoritarian style; and 3) ascertain democratic performance. Data collection analysis done using cross-sectional survey design that combined quantitative qualitative research methods. Using simple random purposeful sampling techniques, 100 participants chosen from target population 300. Through use questionnaires interview guides, data gathered. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) used analyze data, descriptive find patterns trends data. findings revealed significantly 83%. accounted 66.7% variation performance, while contributed 74.1%. emphasized importance upholding existing rules, regulations, enhance Recommendations include adopting flexible approaches heads, emphasizing rules recognizing significance authority boost sustain also highlighted value open communication, guidance, equitable treatment, equal opportunities all stakeholders involved promoting desired outcomes schools. implication lies demonstration adaption different can be applicable educational settings achieve goals.Keywords: Leadership Styles; Academic Performance; theory; Educational Outcomes; School Management; Students