The challenge

Ethiopian households face daunting challenges due to inflation, conflict, drought, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite significant socio-economic growth, the country remains highly susceptible to climate-induced shocks, compounded by destructive conflicts and persistent insecurity (1). Ethiopia is one of the most impacted countries in the world regarding food security, with up to 20 million (16% of the population) suffering from severe food insecurity (2,3). Many children are dropping out of school due to hunger (3). This predicament is exacerbated by students' inability to concentrate or attend class, either due to hunger or familial obligations to seek food.

The importance of school meals

The nutritional and health status of schoolchildren profoundly affects academic performance (4,5). Research highlights the correlation between adequate nutrition and better academic outcomes, enrollment rates, and learning productivity (5–7). Conversely, malnutrition can impede growth, cognitive development, and overall educational attainment. School feeding programs (SFP), providing at least one meal a day, can boost physical growth, reduce obesity, enhance school attendance, and academic achievement (5). Studies indicate that children exposed to poor diets and dietary inadequacies are more likely to develop cognitive deficits, delayed physical growth, neuromotor development, and metabolic complications (5,7).

A school feeding program has the potential to affect the health and educational status of school-aged children (8). It can also decrease gender inequalities by reducing disparities between boys and girls (13,14).  In other nations, school meal initiatives have not just boosted enrollment and retention rates, but also sharpened cognitive skills and learning abilities. Impactful development and nutritional changes are particularly notable among vulnerable groups, like girls and impoverished children, who often subsist on less than a dollar daily. For instance, a Ghanaian study(18) found that the national school feeding program led to a 14% improvement in literacy scores, 13% in mathematics, and 8% in reasoning ability for girls.  

Any successes so far?

School feeding programs in Ethiopia have been instrumental in addressing various socio-economic challenges and improving the well-being of children. They have yielded significant successes, positively impacting various aspects of children's lives and education. Here is a detailed discussion of their successes:

• Nutritional Impact: SFPs in Ethiopia have significantly contributed to address malnutrition among children. By providing regular meals composed of locally sourced nutritious foods, these programs help combat deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, promoting healthy growth and development among students. Studies indicate positive effects on body mass index and dietary diversity. Other studies showed that SFP reduced hunger, such as Destaw et al. (21). In addition, Mastewal et al. (22) also showed that SFP resulted in improved dietary diversity and nutritional status.

  

• Improved School Attendance and Enrollment: Access to school meals serves as a powerful incentive for parents to send their children to school regularly. As a result, SFPs have contributed to increased school enrollment and improved attendance rates across the country. For instance, Destaw et al (21) showed that the SFP in Addis Ababa has enhanced school enrollment and attendance and better equality in school enrollment between boys and girls, leading to positive educational outcomes.

• Enhanced Academic Performance: Well-nourished children are better equipped to concentrate, participate actively in classroom activities, and achieve better academic outcomes. School meal programs in Ethiopia have been associated with improved learning outcomes, including higher test scores, reduced dropout rates, and increased retention of students in schools.

• Gender Equality: In Ethiopia, where gender disparities in education persist, SFPs play a crucial role in promoting gender equality. By providing equal access to nutritious meals for both boys and girls, these programs help remove barriers to education and empower girls to pursue their academic aspirations.

• Community Engagement and Empowerment: School meal programs in Ethiopia often involve community members in meal preparation, distribution, and management. This not only stimulates local economies but also fosters a sense of ownership and community cohesion. School gardens promote sustainable practices and empower communities to support child nutrition.

• Health and Nutrition Education: Many SFPs in Ethiopia incorporate health and nutrition education components, teaching students and their families about the importance of healthy eating habits, hygiene practices, and sustainable agriculture. These educational efforts have long-term benefits, equipping children with knowledge and skills that promote lifelong health and well-being.

• Resilience in the Face of Challenges: During times of crisis, schools often serve as distribution centers for emergency food aid, ensuring that children continue to receive nutritious meals even in challenging circumstances.

• Unexpected benefits: SFP in Ethiopia have yielded a plethora of unforeseen advantages, encompassing job creation, the fostering of robust social interactions among schoolchildren, the flourishing of school gardening initiatives, and heightened community engagement in school activities.

Challenges and Future Directions

In Ethiopia, implementing SFPs faces significant challenges across administrative, economic, political, and infrastructure domains, hindering their nationwide rollout. A key obstacle is the lack of a well-established government structure, leading to ad hoc implementation dependent on political will. Economic challenges, exacerbated by inflation, hinder progress, even in relatively successful regions like Oromia and Addis Ababa. Infrastructure deficiencies, including poor roads and inadequate facilities, pose significant hurdles, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, hygiene and sanitation issues, coupled with political and security concerns, further exacerbate the situation.

What should be done in the future?  

Policymakers must recognize SFPs as holistic tools for youth development. SFPs should be more than an academic tool but a versatile strategy nurturing healthy, productive, and responsible citizens. Establishing dedicated departments within regional and local education offices is crucial for nationwide SFP coordination.

A national SFP coalition involving multiple sectors, innovative financing mechanisms, and community-led initiatives can ensure sustainable funding. Strong political commitment and community ownership, from design to evaluation, are essential for unlocking SFP's full potential, leading to a brighter future for Ethiopian youth and the nation.

Dr Taddese Zerfu is a Research Fellow at the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia  

References

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[2]            EFSIN and Global Network Against Food Crises. 2024. GRFC 2024. Rome

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