Financial Management Strategies Employed by Public Primary Schools in Ensuring the Accessibility of School Feeding Program in Chamwino District Council, Dodoma-Tanzania
Abstract
This study investigated the financial management strategies used by public primary schools in Chamwino District Council, Dodoma, Tanzania, to ensure all pupils have access to school feeding during school days. A qualitative research approach was adopted, using a case study design to gain in-depth insights. Data collection involved interviews and focus group discussions with a total of 52 participants. These included four head teachers, twenty-four members of school feeding committees, and twenty-four teachers. Participants were selected using purposive sampling for head teachers and committee members, while teachers were chosen through simple random sampling. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, which helped identify key financial practices used to support school feeding programs. The study found that schools utilised several strategies to fund and manage the feeding programs effectively. These strategies included securing parental contributions, developing school budgets, organising fundraising activities, and identifying various potential funding sources. His study concludes that while schools have implemented several useful strategies, there is a growing need to enhance creativity and innovation in financial planning and resource mobilisation to sustain and expand these feeding programs. Furthermore, the research emphasises the importance of adhering to established guidelines that provide a structured framework for implementing school feeding initiatives. Based on these findings, it is recommended that stakeholders involved in the management and implementation of school feeding programs strengthen their strategic planning capacities and ensure consistent compliance with policy guidelines. Such measures would enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of school feeding efforts, ultimately improving student access to regular meals and supporting better educational outcomes.
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