Title: Comparative Analysis of the Influence of school Feeding Programmes on Student Retention in Universal Secondary Education in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from Schools in Rakai District, Uganda
Authors: Katushabe Tibasikurwa Innocent
Mark Kiiza
Volume: 10
Issue: 7
Pages: 79-85
Publication Date: 2026/07/28
Abstract:
Over the ages there has been an increasing concern of school feeding programmme and Student retention. This condition has remained a persistent challenge in Universal Secondary Education across Sub-Saharan Africa and Uganda in particular. Despite significant efforts to expand access to secondary education by the Government leaders. In Uganda, particularly in rural districts such as Rakai, poverty and household food insecurity continue to undermine students' regular attendance, engagement, and completion of secondary education. School feeding programmes have been promoted as an intervention to enhance educational participation and reduce dropout; however, empirical evidence on their influence on student retention at the secondary school level remains limited. This study adopted a mixed methodology to examine the influence of school feeding programmes on student retention through a comparative analysis of selected USE secondary schools in Rakai District, Uganda. A sample 418 representatives were scientifically selected and engaged in the study. Specifically, it compares student retention outcomes between schools implementing feeding programmes and those without such programmes while examining the extent to which school feeding contributes to improved attendance, persistence, and progression. The study adopts a comparative cross-sectional design within a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data will be collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data generated through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis will be analysed thematically. The study is expected to demonstrate that school feeding programmes positively influence student retention by reducing absenteeism and dropout while promoting sustained school participation. The findings will contribute to the growing body of evidence on school feeding as a policy intervention for improving retention in Universal Secondary Education and provide recommendations for policymakers, education planners, school administrators, and development partners seeking to strengthen equitable access to and completion of secondary education in Uganda and across Sub-Saharan Africa.