Background of the Study
Peer mentorship in school sports has emerged as an innovative approach to cultivating leadership skills among students. In Jalingo, mentorship programs that pair experienced student-athletes with their peers have shown promise in developing communication, decision-making, and conflict-resolution abilities (Ibrahim, 2023). These mentorship relationships provide mentees with role models who exemplify leadership both on and off the field (Emeka, 2024). By engaging in regular practice sessions, collaborative planning, and reflective feedback, students learn to assume leadership roles, thereby enhancing their confidence and ability to guide teams effectively (Chukwu, 2025). Moreover, the dynamic nature of sports creates an environment where peer influence can lead to rapid skill acquisition and the internalization of positive behavioral traits (Adebisi, 2023). Despite these benefits, the lack of formal mentorship structures and limited training for mentors pose significant challenges (Babatunde, 2024). Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring that peer mentorship programs achieve their full potential in fostering leadership among students (Femi, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Although peer mentorship programs are increasingly recognized for their role in developing leadership skills, many schools in Jalingo face implementation challenges. Inconsistencies in mentor selection, inadequate training, and limited support from school administrators have led to variable outcomes in leadership development (Aisha, 2023). Furthermore, the absence of standardized evaluation metrics makes it difficult to assess the true impact of these programs on student leadership (Olayinka, 2024). These shortcomings have resulted in missed opportunities to fully leverage peer mentorship as a tool for cultivating effective leaders in the sports arena (Ibrahim, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the impact of peer mentorship on the development of leadership skills in school sports.
2. To identify best practices in the implementation of mentorship programs.
3. To recommend strategies for improving the structure and outcomes of peer mentorship initiatives.
Research Questions
1. How does peer mentorship influence the development of leadership skills in school sports?
2. What are the best practices for implementing effective peer mentorship programs?
3. What challenges impede the successful adoption of peer mentorship in developing leadership qualities?
Research Hypotheses
1. Peer mentorship in school sports significantly enhances students' leadership skills.
2. Structured mentorship programs lead to better leadership outcomes compared to unstructured approaches.
3. Addressing challenges in mentor training will improve the effectiveness of peer mentorship initiatives.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores how peer mentorship can serve as a catalyst for leadership development in school sports. The findings will offer practical recommendations for schools to implement robust mentorship programs, ultimately enhancing student leadership and overall team performance (Emeka, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to schools in Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State, and focuses solely on the impact of peer mentorship in sports on the development of leadership skills.
Definitions of Terms
1. Peer Mentorship: A program in which experienced students provide guidance and support to their peers.
2. Leadership Skills: The ability to guide, motivate, and manage a group effectively.
3. Mentorship Program: A structured initiative aimed at fostering personal and professional development through peer guidance.
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