The School Feeding Programme in Masaiti District on the Copperbelt Province is transforming the education sector, with schools recording increased learner attendance and improved retention. ‎ ‎Speaking in an interview with the media, Chamunda Primary School Headteacher, Mubita…

The School Feeding Programme in Masaiti District on the Copperbelt Province is transforming the education sector, with schools recording increased learner attendance and improved retention.

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‎Speaking in an interview with the media, Chamunda Primary School Headteacher, Mubita Lubala, said the programme has not only increased school attendance but has also improved learners’ concentration and active participation during lessons.

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‎Mr Lubala described the initiative as a timely intervention that has created a more conducive learning environment, especially for learners who had previously stopped attending school due to hunger and other challenges.

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‎He commended the government for prioritising the welfare of school-going children through the programme, noting that well-nourished learners are better positioned to perform well academically.

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‎Meanwhile, members of the community said the School Feeding Programme has encouraged more children to attend school consistently by providing daily meals while easing the burden on vulnerable households struggling to feed their children.

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‎One of the parents, Maggie Mavu, praised government for the initiative, saying it has helped address hunger among learners and motivated many children to attend school regularly because they are assured of receiving a meal while at school.

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‎Another parent, Miniver Katontomeka, said many children had previously stayed away from school due to lack of food, while others suffered from malnutrition.

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‎She noted that the introduction of the programme in schools has seen many learners return to school, giving them renewed hope for a better future through education.

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‎The community has since appealed to the government to sustain and expand the School Feeding Programme to more schools, saying the initiative remains key to improving education outcomes and ensuring that no child is left behind.