Impact of School Feeding Program on Pupils’ Attendance and Performance in Basic Science and Technology in Primary Schools in Katsina Metropolis

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the School Feeding Program on pupils’ attendance and academic performance in Basic Science and Technology in public primary schools in Katsina Metropolis, Katsina State, Nigeria. The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design, specifically a non-equivalent control group design. The population comprised all Primary 5 and 6 pupils in public primary schools in Katsina Metropolis. A sample of 360 pupils was selected using multistage sampling techniques, consisting of 180 pupils from School Feeding Program beneficiary schools and 180 pupils from non-beneficiary schools. Two instruments were used for data collection: Attendance Record Checklist (ARC) and Basic Science and Technology Achievement Test (BSTAT). The instruments were validated by experts, and a reliability coefficient of 0.81 was obtained using Cronbach’s Alpha method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and percentage) and inferential statistics (independent samples t-test and Pearson Product Moment Correlation) at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that pupils in beneficiary schools recorded significantly higher attendance rates and performed better in Basic Science and Technology than pupils in non-beneficiary schools. A significant positive relationship was also found between participation in the School Feeding Program and academic performance. However, challenges such as irregular food supply, weak monitoring, poor food quality, and inadequate kitchen facilities were identified. The study concluded that the School Feeding Program significantly enhances attendance and academic performance, and recommended program expansion, improved monitoring, and better infrastructural support for sustainability.