The Ministry of Education and Sports has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to launch a nationwide primary school feeding program in 2026.
This ambitious plan is a direct response to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics’ report highlighting the devastating link between food shortages in schools and soaring dropout rates among students.
First Lady Janet Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports, made this pivotal announcement on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Nakasero State Lodge while releasing the NRM Manifesto Progress Report for her ministry.
“Aims to provide meals for learners in primary schools, particularly addressing the needs of those in rural areas,” she emphasized, shedding light on the program’s primary objective.
Rural areas, where parents often struggle to provide adequate nutrition for their children, will be the primary focus of this initiative.
By ensuring that no child is left hungry while pursuing an education, the minister noted that the program is expected to reduce school dropout rates and create a conducive learning environment.
In fact, research has shown that school feeding programs can have a profound impact on attendance and academic performance.
The minister also underscored the government’s efforts to make Universal Primary and Secondary Education compulsory, making parents answerable for ensuring their children attend school.
This marks the fourth year of the NRM Manifesto 2021-2026 for the Education and Sports subprogram, a testament to the government’s commitment to transforming the education sector.
