Implementers’ Perceptions of the School Feeding Programme at Two Schools

Abstract

The School Feeding Programme is used as a poverty alleviation measure to ensure that poor learners eat at least one meal a day to stay concentrated in school. The purpose of this study was to investigate implementers’ experiences of the SFP. The study employed a qualitative approach and a case study design. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. The study utilised focus group discussions and observations as data collection instruments, and the data was analysed using content analysis. The study observed that the SFP has the potential to improve enrolment, attendance, and retention and reduce dropout rates among poor and vulnerable children, but was hampered by multiple challenges. It was recommended that monitoring and coordination be improved.