Foundation tackles classroom hunger with feeding programme

The Oladele Fajemirokun Foundation has said it is supporting the education of indigent pupils in selected public primary schools through its Early Childhood School Feeding Programme, aimed at reducing classroom hunger and improving learning outcomes.

The Executive Director of the foundation, Olawumi Fajemirokun, disclosed this in a statement shared with Society Plus, explaining that the initiative was introduced to address the difficulties faced by low-income families in providing their children with adequate nutrition to support their education.

She said teachers had frequently raised concerns about pupils’ inability to concentrate in class because of hunger and the lack of basic necessities required for effective learning.

According to her, the challenges have contributed to low school enrolment, absenteeism and truancy, potentially undermining the children’s educational prospects.

She said, “History is replete with examples of leaders, intellectual giants and exceptional change-makers who rose from humble beginnings to attain global prominence, with education serving as a powerful catalyst for their transformation and success.”

Fajemirokun explained that the foundation’s feeding programme provides hundreds of pupils in underserved communities with nutritious, balanced meals to support their physical growth and overall well-being.

She added that the intervention was designed not only to address hunger but also to improve school attendance, concentration and children’s ability to participate actively in classroom activities.

The executive director stressed that no child should be denied the opportunity to fulfil their potential because of hunger, describing adequate nutrition as fundamental to learning and development.

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She noted that well-nourished children were better positioned to concentrate, participate in lessons and achieve their academic potential.

According to her, the foundation’s intervention goes beyond providing meals to investing in healthier futures, stronger communities and the development of future leaders.

Fajemirokun also disclosed plans to extend the programme to three additional schools in the new academic session, as part of efforts to reach more pupils in underserved communities.

She said the foundation’s activities extended beyond education and nutrition to healthcare, economic empowerment and community development.

In youth development and entrepreneurship, she said its Business Innovation and Talent Expression programme continues to support young innovators and entrepreneurs through mentorship, enterprise training and business support opportunities.

She added that the foundation was committed to working with strategic partners and communities to improve child welfare, strengthen household resilience and promote food security.