Influence of Food Inventory Management Practices on Operational Costs in Public Secondary Schools in Njoro Sub-County, Kenya
Joan Jerobon Kiptoo, Fredrick B.J.A. Ngala and John Nyawara Ochola
Department of Education,
School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences
Kabarak University
Email: Joansk80@gmail.com
Abstract: This study investigated the influence of food inventory management practices on operational costs in public secondary schools in Njoro Sub-County, Kenya. Specifically, it examined inventory monitoring, food storage, delivery verification, pest control, and food rationing practices in relation to operational costs. The study adopted a descriptive surveyresearch design. The target population comprised 235 respondents from 47 public secondary schools, from whom a sample of 70 respondents was selected using a two-stage sampling procedure. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and interview schedules. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings indicated that food inventory management practices were generally established, with an overall mean of 3.12 (SD = 0.79). Food storage availability, delivery verification, and physical stocktaking were relatively well implemented. However, weaknesses emerged in refrigeration, pest control, timely record updating, and prevention of food losses. Correlation analysis revealed a strong negative and statistically significantrelationship between food inventory management practices and operational costs (r = −0.71, p < 0.001). Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of regular stock reconciliation, proper storage, portion control, and the prevention of food wastage. The study concludes that effective food inventory management is associated with lower operational costs. It recommends strengthening inventory monitoring, improving storage infrastructure, and enhancing procurement planning and expenditure accountability in public secondary schools.
