Kasama District Commissioner, Annie Paul, has dismissed social media rumours alleging that a named school is charging pupils to benefit from the school feeding programme being implemented by Mary’s Meals.
The media reports that Mrs Paul has clarified that the school feeding programme is free of charge and supported by the government, with the aim of improving the nutrition status and academic performance of learners.
She stressed that no school in the district is requesting parents to contribute money towards the programme, noting that parents have instead embraced the initiative through the Parent Teachers Committee (PTC).
“I am happy that at this school, the PTC leadership is at the forefront in supporting the implementation of the school feeding programme which has positively impacted the lives of learners,” she said.
Mrs Paul further explained that parents are only asked to assist by cooking meals for pupils as their contribution.
She warned against spreading false information that could discourage stakeholders from supporting the initiative.
“These lies circulating on social media can negatively affect the implementation of the programme, and my office will not tolerate such behaviour,” she cautioned.
She made the remarks when she addressed parents at Mubanga Chipoya Primary School in Kasama District.
Meanwhile, parents have also expressed disappointment over the false social media claims, reaffirming their support for the feeding programme.
One of the parents, John Botton, said the initiative is running smoothly and has led to noticeable improvements in children’s academic performance and health.
“The school feeding programme is impacting positively on the health and academic performance of our children,” he said, urging fellow parents to continue supporting government programmes that promote education and nutrition.
He further stated that those spreading falsehoods online do not mean well for the community.
Mr Botton also called for respect towards school head teachers, describing them as key partners in nurturing learners into responsible citizens.
“We should learn to appreciate the roles school administrators play in shaping our children’s future and instilling good morals in them,” he added,
