Socioeconomic status, school feeding and academic performance in UPE schools in Mahango Sub County, Kasese District, Uganda

Abstract

In this regard, the purpose of the study was to assess the role school feeding programs in fostering pupils’ academic performance of pupils in UPE schools. The study was guided by three objectives which were; to determine the effect of parents` socioeconomic status on pupil’s academic performance, to determine the effect of school feeding programs on pupil’s academic performance and to determine the relation between school feeding programs and pupil’s academic performance in UPE schools in Kasese District. Findings of the study revealed that, there was a significant effect of parents’ socioeconomic status on pupils’ academic performance; Parents whose household income was low found it challenging to provide required basic need for pupils’ education, and supporting school programs like feeding of children. The low levels of income were also attributed to unemployment and low enumeration to those employed because of their level of education. It was further established that, there was a significant effect of school feeding programs on pupils’ academic performance. Schools that had a culture of feeding children we reported to have better performance as children’s attention was guaranteed. Lastly, it was discovered that, there was a strong positive significant relationship between School Feeding Programs and Pupils Academic Performance in UPE School. School feeding programs for children did not only keep pupils in school but also made school going enjoyable