Effects of School Feeding Programme (SFP) on Universal Basic Education (UBE) in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State

Abstract

The study examined the Effect of School Feeding Programme (SFP) on Universal Basic Education (UBE) in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The population of the study consisted of all teachers/head teachers, Local Government Education Authority staff, and Parent-Teacher Association members in the selected primary schools. The sample size of 341 respondents was determined using the Krejcie and Morgan table. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using simple linear regression analysis. The results showed a significant positive relationship between SFP and UBE, indicating that SFP has a positive effect on pupils’ enrollment in the selected primary schools in Zaria. The study also revealed that SFP also has positive and significant effect on pupils’ retention in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The study recommended among other things that the government should prioritize sustaining the SFP as an incentive for pupils to concentrate on their studies. This, in turn, can lead to improved learning outcomes and greater success in school. By sustaining and expanding the programme, policymakers and practitioners can work towards achieving greater academic success, higher enrolment rates, and improved pupil retention, ultimately leading to a more educated and prosperous society.