What would be the sources of funding for any expansion of the school feeding program?
The partners are looking up to government and the round seven of the Global Fund to provide regular support to primary school pupils, but we are really advocating for a policy that recognizes the value of school feeding in the development of education in the country, under the combined tragedies of HIV/AIDS, climate change, high food prices, and limited human resources capacity in the country.
What has been the effect of high food prices on this funding effort?
The WFP country office had sufficient food in the pipeline when the project expired in April 2008. When the project was immediately renewed, the transfer of the food commodities and a good part of the funds that cover related expenses gave the country office a buffer against the high food prices. We will feel the impacts of high food prices mostly after January 2009. Efforts must be doubled to keep the main donors informed.
How can someone help the school feeding program?
In addition to food supply, which WFP has been able to sustain, there is a need for improvement in water supply, as a majority of the schools are facing critical water shortages. This has resulted in some schools not being able to cook food on some days. There is also a need for proper kitchen facilities/shelters. The concept of "school as a center of care and support" that has been run as a pilot program in 40 schools needs to be expanded, with a commitment to include a minimum service package that will provide a sustainable learning environment.
Anything else you'd like to add about why you think school feeding is important for people to support?
Education is key in helping children from underprivileged families to attain similar levels of achievement as their peers from well-to-do families. Education is a fundamental basis for freedom, democracy, and self-esteem, and school feeding provides an incentive for poor families to send their children to school.
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