Academic and personal growth through school meals
Haja eats a full meal each day at school and has the energy to focus on her studies and a positive future.
Haja’s life in Port Loko district is not an easy one. At only 11 years old, she wakes up every morning at 5 a.m. to wash dishes, sweep, fetch water and bathe her limbless and blind uncle, whom she and her brother take care of.
Haja has never met her mother, and her father lives far away in the capital, Freetown doing carpentry. She lives with her uncle and brother in a 1-bedroom home where they all sleep on the floor. There is no toilet in their home, so they must visit their neighbour’s toilet whenever they need to use it.
Despite her difficult living situation, Haja attends primary school in Port Loko district. Her grandmother brought Haja to the school so she can study and receive a good education.
“With the school feeding programme, I can focus on my studies and my future.”
Haja
She did not pass the entrance exam with the score required for her age level but she was fortunate enough to be accepted into the school. She was placed in class 3 instead of class 6 but despite this setback, Haja perservered. Her school doesn’t charge fees and she was given a uniform and books by the school.
She says, “I used to be worried about food all the time, but now with the school feeding programme, I can focus on my studies and my future.”
Feeding programme boosts health and education
Before the school feeding programme started, Haja would come to school with no food and would often go to bed hungry. Her health has now improved and she wakes up with more energy and is better able to focus on her studies.
“Thanks to the school feeding programme, we’ve seen a big improvement in our students’ academic performance,” says Monica, Haja’s teacher. “It’s not just their physical health that’s improved, but their mental health too.”
Food improves health and academic performance
Monica has noticed a significant improvement in Haja’s academic performance since the school feeding programme began. Haja is no longer distracted by hunger and is able to participate actively in class discussions. Her mental health has improved as well.
Monica is impressed with Haja’s resilience and hard work, considering the difficult circumstances she faces. Despite her difficult living situation, Haja remains positive and encourages other children to stay in school and finish their education. She knows she will reap the benefits of her education in the future.
Haja and her classmates have the energy and focus they need to do well in school and to work towards a brighter future.
The school feeding programme is by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education and implemented by Plan International.
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