In response to the ongoing drought crisis, the government has initiated an emergency school feeding programme in Luampa District, aimed at supporting vulnerable pupils facing severe hunger. The programme is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the impact of the drought and ensure that education continues without interruption, despite the challenging circumstances.
Acting District Commissioner, Michael Masinja, officiated the launch of the programme, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the adverse effects of the drought. He underscored the importance of food provision for the success of education services. “The provision of food is critical to ensure effective delivery of education services to learners,” Mr. Masinja remarked, reinforcing that no child should be deprived of their education due to hunger.
Sandal Makumbu, the Luampa District Education Board Secretary, further highlighted the programme’s importance in improving school attendance. He pointed out that many children had been staying home because of hunger, and some had even resorted to piecework to help their families meet basic needs. This trend had led to a noticeable decline in school attendance, and the new feeding initiative seeks to directly address this issue. “By ensuring that children receive at least one nutritious meal during the school day, the initiative will encourage them to attend school regularly,” Mr. Makumbu explained.
Catherine Kapawa, the Dean of Head Teachers in the district, also spoke out about the critical impact of hunger on students’ academic performance. She emphasized that when children are hungry, their ability to focus and learn is significantly hindered. “Learning is severely compromised when children cannot concentrate due to hunger,” Ms. Kapawa said. She expressed optimism that the school feeding programme would not only alleviate immediate hunger but would also improve academic performance, providing a more conducive environment for learning.
The initiative has been welcomed by local communities, with many expressing hope that it will support the long-term goal of improving education in the district. With food security being a pressing concern, the programme serves as a vital bridge to maintaining educational continuity in Luampa, where the effects of the drought have been particularly devastating.
This proactive approach reflects the government’s dedication to addressing the multifaceted challenges caused by climate change, ensuring that the future of the nation’s children remains a priority despite difficult circumstances.
The emergency school feeding programme in Luampa stands as a crucial step in safeguarding the educational opportunities for vulnerable children in the district, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more focused learning environment.
