The Impact and Challenges of South African School Feeding Programmes in the COVID-19 Context

Onyenweaku, Eridiong; Kesa, Hema

doi:10.30476/intjsh.2023.98886.1311

Document Type : Research Article (s)

Authors

Food Evolution Research Laboratory, School of Tourism and Hospitality, College of Business and Economics, University of Johannesburg, South Africa

https://doi.org/10.30476/intjsh.2023.98886.1311

Abstract

Background: Many individuals are grappling with food insecurity due to the ongoing global recession. Childhood malnutrition poses a risk factor for adult morbidities, underscoring the need for cost-effective strategies to prevent and combat this issue. This study aimed to determine the impact and challenges of in-school nutrition programs, shedding light on the difficulties faced within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of schools across four South African provinces—Gauteng, Western Cape, Northwest, and KwaZulu-Natal—was conducted between April 2022 and May 2022. A total of 36 schools were selected at random. Three interviews (questionnaires) were administered to each school’s principal, teacher, and food handler. Additionally, an observational checklist was employed. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis utilizing an inductive approach through Atlas. ti software, while Microsoft Excel was utilized to analyze the checklist data. Results were presented using descriptive statistics.
Results: The school communities have experienced substantial overall benefits from the school feeding programs. Survey results demonstrated a noteworthy reduction in the prevalence of unemployment, poverty, dependency on grants, and larger families within the surveyed districts. However, some meals were consumed less frequently due to a lack of flavor.
Conclusions: The school feeding programs have yielded positive impacts. In order to enhance outcomes, there is a need to incorporate more protein-rich foods (such as meat and eggs) and a more comprehensive array of spices/flavors. These changes will respectively enhance the nutritional content and appeal of the meals.

Highlights

Eridiong Onyenweaku (Google Scholar), (PubMed)

How to Cite: Onyenweaku E, Kesa H. The Impact and Challenges of South African School Feeding Programmes in the COVID-19 Context. Int. J. School. Health. 2023;10(4):225-237. doi: 10.30476/INTJSH.2023.98886.1311.

Keywords

References

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International Journal of School Health

The Impact and Challenges of South African School Feeding Programmes in the COVID-19 Context

References

References

Volume 10, Issue 4 - Serial Number 40
October 2023
Pages 225-237

The Impact and Challenges of South African School Feeding Programmes in the COVID-19 Context

References

References

Volume 10, Issue 4 - Serial Number 40October 2023Pages 225-237

Volume 10, Issue 4 - Serial Number 40
October 2023
Pages 225-237