Stakeholders Perspective of the Ghana School Feeding Program: A Case of the Denkyembour District

Abstract

School feeding interventions have been flaunted as an effective methodology to improve school enrollment, attendance, retention, stakeholders satisfaction, and annihilate challenges associated in developing countries. However, there is little empirical evidence. The study’s objectives were to examine the impact of the GSFP on enrollment and retention, assess stakeholders’ satisfaction in the GSFP implementation, and the challenges faced by the program at the DDA. A qualitative approach was employed. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 20 purposively selected informants. Data were transcribed and analysed thematically. The study identified a significant increase in enrollment and retention of pupils. Despite, influenced by other factors, the GSFP remained the prominent factor that enhanced enrollment and retention. The study revealed sidelining of the community and other key stakeholders from the running of the program. Stakeholders were virtually ignorant of the selection criteria for both caterers and beneficiary schools and uninvolved in any formal monitoring procedures, contrary to the policy’s tenants. This alienation did not allow community ownership and resource contribution hence compromising on program stability and accountability. The absence of proper institutional functioning and stakeholder involvement generated series of issues that challenged program effectiveness and stability. The attendant delay of reimbursement of monies and low budgetary allocation affected food quality and quantity. The alienation of key stakeholders challenged effective program monitoring. The study recommends appropriate measures that promote stability and accountability of the program in the DDA.