Some residents of Bauchi State have reiterated the need to reintroduce the homegrown school feeding programme in order to boost school enrolment.
The residents who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria in Bauchi on Wednesday said that the move would enhance learning in public primary schools.
One of them, Mr Samuel Garba, said that it was wrong to discontinue the programme which had “tremendously brought life to the public school system.”
Another resident, Malam Abubakar Isa, said that the school feeding initiative had encouraged many parents to enrol their children in public schools.
“This programme was more than just a feeding initiative; it motivated pupils to stay in school, and improved their concentration in class,” he said.
Hajiya Zainab Haruna said that the programme had a positive impact on the local economy because it created opportunities for local farmers and food vendors.
“It supported small businesses and reduced poverty, especially among women who supplied and prepared the meals.
“The suspension of the programme in many states has negatively affected school attendance, particularly in rural areas,” she said.
On his part, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed urged governments at all levels to prioritise its reintroduction and ensure transparency in its management.
He said that reviving the initiative would enhance educational outcomes, and support local economic growth.
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