Evaluating the impact of school feeding programme on the academic performance of pupils. a case study of basic schools in the Koforidua municipality in the Eastern region.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine how the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) has impacted on pupil’s academic performance, enrolment, attendance and retention of children in some basic schools in the New Juaben Municipality. Descriptive research design was used for the study. The study applied quantitative research approach. The study was conducted in the New Juaben Municipality in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The target population includes Head teachers, teachers and pupils of the public primary schools, and caterers of the GSFP in the New Juaben Municipality. A total sample size of 188 respondents were selected for the study. Questionnaires were the main research instruments used. The study was analysed using Statistical package for a Social Scientist (SPSS) version 18. The results were presented using frequency tables, graphs and charts. The study findings concluded that 87.3% agreed that the GSFP increases school attendance by lowering the opportunity cost of attending school and providing additional incentives to engage in formal education, and GSFP leads to more time spent in school and enhances pupils’ academic performance. Moreover, a delay in the release of feeding grants subsequently affects beneficiary pupils and the school. The study recommended that the Government of Ghana through the coordinators of the school feeding programme should consistently release funds to sustain the GSFP in the Ghanaian schools.