Kaabong Secondary School Enrolment Plummets by Half Following WFP Feeding Cuts

Secondary schools in Kaabong District are grappling with a massive crisis after enrolment figures dropped by more than 50 percent. The sharp decline follows the World Food Programme’s decision to phase out free school feeding programmes across secondary and tertiary institutions in the Karamoja sub-region.

Since the withdrawal took effect, local institutions have been forced to adjust, leading to soaring operational costs that are directly passed on to parents. According to Mr Stephen Akileng, the Kaabong District inspector of schools, the situation has triggered unprecedented dropout rates. Institutions like Kaabong Secondary School saw numbers plummet from 1,200 students down to 720, while Iik Seed SS recorded a drop from 450 to 268 learners.

To bridge the gap, schools implemented mandatory food contributions, requiring students to bring large quantities of maize and beans. However, prolonged dry spells and severe drought have left households impoverished and unable to afford either the hiked tuition or the food requirements. Some affected learners have even resorted to re-enrolling in primary schools simply to access daily meals.

Meanwhile, development partners such as World Vision Uganda are stepping in with alternative interventions, including the installation of mini-irrigation facilities and school garden support to bolster food security. While initiatives like the Karamoja Feeds Karamoja programme aim to provide long-term homegrown solutions, immediate relief remains urgently needed to keep students in classrooms.

Read the full story on Daily Monitor.