School feeding programme boosts performance at Nala

DODOMA: NALA Secondary School in Dodoma has recorded significant improvements in student performance following the successful implementation of the government’s school feeding programme and national nutrition guidelines.

This was revealed by the school deputy head, Mr Joseph Chambo, during a visit by journalists to inspect development projects and the feeding initiative rolled out under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s four years in office.

“The implementation of the National School Feeding and Nutrition Guidelines for Basic Education has benefited us greatly.

Previously, our school experienced very low attendance. Even when students were present, their concentration and performance were poor,” he said.

He noted that under the programme, students are now more motivated to attend school and academic performance has improved significantly.

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“As teachers, we have worked hard to implement the programme,” Mr Chambo emphasised.

He also highlighted that providing meals at school has helped reduce distractions and risky behaviour, especially among female students.

“The provision of food and proper nutrition has encouraged students to come to school and study in a calm and focused environment. As a result, we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in academic outcomes,” he said.

Vanessa Fidelis, a student at Nala Secondary School, expressed her gratitude to the government for introducing the school meals programme.

“I’m very thankful to the government for bringing this service to our school. It has helped reduce absenteeism and allowed us to study for longer hours, especially during evening classes. This programme has improved our academic performance and boosted our grades,” said Fidelis.