shloboe boe
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT’S school feeding programme, now extended to both primary and secondary learners in rural and urban areas, has considerably boosted school attendance while improving nutrition among pupils.
This initiative aligns with the Government’s larger efforts to strengthen the education sector and address food insecurity.
One of the schools that has experienced a notable increase in attendance is Ntalale Secondary School in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South.
Previously, the school’s attendance had dropped to below 70 percent, with many learners struggling to walk long distances, some as far as 17km on empty stomachs. Since the introduction of the feeding programme last year, attendance has risen to over 90 percent, reflecting the programme’s impact.
The school feeding programme has been a crucial intervention, particularly for learners affected by the El Nino-induced drought. The Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) 2024 report highlighted an urgent need for food aid and nutrition support, reinforcing the necessity of this initiative.
By providing at least one hot meal daily, the programme has alleviated hunger and enhanced educational outcomes.
Under the programme, Government supplies grain, while parents mobilise funds to purchase relish. This collaborative approach has ensured that children receive nutritious meals, which in turn has led to improved concentration, academic performance, and overall well-being.
Ntalale Secondary School Development Committee chairperson, Ms Agnes Mathe, commended the programme, noting that both attendance and student morale have greatly improved.
“We have seen a tremendous difference since the introduction of the school feeding programme.
Learners are now attending school more regularly, and their nutritional status has improved. Before the programme, attendance had dropped below 70 percent, but now it exceeds 90 percent,” she said.
Ms Mathe said many students had lost interest in attending school due to hunger, especially those who had to walk long distances. With food now available at school, learners are more motivated, and teachers anticipate better academic results this year.
A parent, Ms Vanessa Moyo, echoed similar sentiments, saying the programme has come at a crucial time when families are still grappling with the effects of the drought.
“It was difficult to send children to school when they had nothing to eat, especially considering the long distances they had to walk. The feeding programme has brought much-needed relief, not just to the learners but also to us as parents,” she said.
“We are fully supportive of the initiative and contribute R50 each term to buy relish.”
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson, Mr Taungana Ndoro, acknowledged the programme’s positive impact. He said Government is committed to sustaining and expanding it.
“The Ministry has conducted assessments to evaluate the impact of the school feeding programme. The results have been encouraging, showing a direct correlation between meal provision and improved school attendance, particularly in rural areas.
“Learners who receive regular meals are more focused, engaged, and perform better academically,” he said.
Currently, the programme is being implemented in all P3/S3 and P2 schools nationwide, targeting primary and secondary schools, especially in rural areas where food insecurity is prevalent. Some urban schools have also adopted the initiative, ensuring that children from disadvantaged backgrounds benefit.
Mr Ndoro noted that schools participating in the programme have recorded increased attendance rates, as students prioritise attending school to receive meals.
He said the initiative has fostered stronger community involvement, with parents playing an active role in their children’s nutrition and education.
“The Ministry remains committed to expanding this initiative to ensure that no child goes hungry while pursuing their education. We are continuously monitoring and evaluating the programme to make necessary adjustments and enhance its effectiveness,” said Mr Ndoro. — DubeMatutu
Online Reporter