Contribution of School Feeding Programmes on Pupils’ School Retention: A Study of Public Primary Schools in Arusha District Council, Tanzania

Boniface Gasper & Paul Raphael Kitula
St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Arusha
Email: bomwaa@gmail.com/ kitula07@gmail.com

Abstract: The study assessed the contribution of school feeding programmes on pupils’ retention in public primary schools in Arusha District. Specifically, the study investigated how feeding programmes influence pupils’ retention, identified the challenges affecting their provision and proposed strategiess to improve the programme. The study was guided by Maslow theory of human needs. The study adopted a mixed methods approach using a convergent design to collect quantitative and qualitative data. The target population included 102 head teachers, 27 ward education officers, 102 school committee chairpersons, 1456 teachers and 30,475 pupils. By using Yamane formula, a sample of 395 was obtained from the total population of 32,162 and respondents were selected through simple random, purposive and systematic sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions. Validity was ensured through expert review and credibility through communicative validation. Reliability was tested using split half method and a coefficient of 0.87 was obtained. Pilot testing was done in three schools to check clarity and usefulness of instruments. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti software. Ethical measures included informed consent, confidentiality and voluntary participation. The findings showed that feeding programmes are present in most schools and help improve attendance retention concentration and academic performance. Challenges included low funding, poor infrastructure, political interference and weak community support. The study concluded that school feeding programmes contribute to pupil retention and recommends stronger government support, active parental contribution, community sensitization and improved programme management.