Enough on our plate? The National School Nutrition Programme in two schools in Katlehong, South Africa

Abstract

The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) is a nation-wide programme aimed at children in the most deprived primary and high schools in South Africa. It has a three-pronged approach to nutrition: school feeding schemes, food gardens and nutrition education. This study has researched and analysed the way in which the NSNP functions, from the creation of menus at national and provincial levels of government through to the implementation of the programme via district offices and on to the management and experience of the programme at individual schools. Two case study schools were chosen for this report. They are primary schools situated in Katlehong township which falls within the Ekurhuleni South educational district of Gauteng. Their similarities and differences have been used to highlight significant factors that impact the effective management of the programme. This study investigates if and how the NSNP is a mechanism employed by the South African government to address disadvantaged communities’ needs and how it promotes social development through the improvement of education and food security.