NO END TO SCHOOL FEEDING PROPRAMME .

In a decisive move, the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) committee has firmly rejected a proposal to terminate the school feeding program. This decision underscores the committee’s commitment to addressing food insecurity among students and enhancing educational outcomes.

The school feeding program, initiated to provide daily meals to students in primary and secondary schools, has been a cornerstone in the fight against hunger and malnutrition among children. The program has gained widespread support from educators, parents, and policymakers who recognize its critical role in improving student attendance, concentration, and overall academic performance.

The proposal to scrap the program emerged amid financial tightening and budgetary constraints. Proponents argued that funds allocated to the school feeding initiative could be redirected to other pressing needs within the education sector, such as infrastructure development and teacher recruitment. However, this viewpoint faced strong opposition from various stakeholders who emphasized the far-reaching benefits of the feeding program.

During a recent meeting, the NG-CDF committee members engaged in a tough debate about the future of the school feeding program. Committee Chairperson, Hon. Alice Wambui, highlighted the tangible benefits that the initiative has brought to communities, particularly in marginalized and food-insecure regions. “The school feeding program is not just about providing meals , it’s about giving children a chance to learn and grow without the burden of hunger,” she stated.

Several committee members echoed Wambui’s view, pointing to studies that have consistently shown a direct correlation between school feeding programs and improved student outcomes. They argued that scrapping the program could lead to increased dropout rates and decreased academic performance, particularly in rural areas where children often rely on school meals as their primary source of nutrition.

Moreover, the committee considered the broader social implications of discontinuing the program. In many communities, the school feeding initiative serves as a safety net for families struggling with poverty and food insecurity. Removing this support could worsen existing inequalities and undermine efforts to promote inclusive education.

In the face of these arguments, the committee ultimately voted to retain the school feeding program. They acknowledged the need for financial prudence but insisted that any budgetary adjustments should not come at the expense of children’s well-being and educational opportunities.

The decision was met with relief and applause from various quarters. Teachers’ unions, parent associations, and child welfare advocates lauded the NG-CDF committee for prioritizing the needs of students and upholding the principle that no child should have to learn on an empty stomach.

Going forward, the committee pledged to explore alternative funding mechanisms to sustain and possibly expand the school feeding program. This includes seeking partnerships with private sector entities, non-governmental organizations, and international donors.

The rejection of the bid to scrap the school feeding program highlights the NG-CDF committee’s steadfast commitment to nurturing the country’s future through comprehensive and inclusive educational policies. As the committee continues to navigate financial challenges, their decision reaffirms the belief that investing in children’s health and education is paramount for the nation’s long-term development.

Valentine Ndeta