The Impact of Project Cycle Management on Educational Projects success

Abstract

This paper explored the impact of the project cycle management methodology on the success of education projects, recognizing their significance in educational development. The research, conducted in Mbulu Town Council, Manyara Region, Tanzania, had three objectives: to assess adoption levels, evaluate the methodology's impact, and identify limitations in its application for project success. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches, using convenience, purposive, and simple random sampling for participant selection. Research instruments included interview and questionnaire guides, along with documentary analysis. Data analysis involved Microsoft Excel and Statistical Data for Social Science (SPSS), presented through various formats. Surveying 117 project managers revealed a 72.7% adoption rate of the project cycle management methodology. However, the correlation between this methodology and project success showed a relatively weak to moderate connection. Longer project durations were associated with a higher likelihood of failure. Stakeholder analysis emerged as crucial for project success, while inadequate problem analysis correlated with project failures. Objective analysis statistically linked to success, but strategy analysis contradicted previous findings. Monitoring indicators were valuable in capturing key project parameters. The ability of project managers to integrate risk management into daily practices was identified as a cost-reducing and stakeholder satisfaction-increasing factor. Financial analysis significantly impacted project success. Implementation barriers, particularly the lack of a sufficiently knowledgeable project team, hindered tools like financial analysis and monitoring. The study emphasizes the importance of project managers understanding and applying the project cycle methodology, addressing operational errors, and taking timely corrective actions. It also underscores the need for training programs targeting project managers lacking specialized skills in project planning and management, with educational institutions playing a pivotal