An analysis of monitoring and evaluation practices on performance of school feeding programs; a case study of the food for education organization, Kiambu county.

Abstract

The outcomes of a program or project may be influenced by the monitoring and evaluation methods that were used. The value of monitoring and evaluation techniques to an organization's success must not be under estimated. These methods are crucial for measuring and improving the results of any endeavor. Thus, the objective of the study was, determine whether procedures for M&E programs have an impact on how well school feeding programmes operate. The study’s significance is to give an insight on the influence of M&E practices on performance of school feeding programs. This research focused on the Food for Education Organization, Kiambu County. It examined the impact of capacity building, participatory M&E, and information systems on monitoring and evaluation. This research was grounded on the theories of human capital, stakeholder theory, and knowledge theory. Food for Education staff was the target population for the study. This include; Managers, assistant managers, operational personnel, tap-to-eat school managers, and support staff. The Yamane (1973) formula was used to generate the sample size n= N/(1+N€)2 of 100) from the target population (200). To evaluate the variables under inquiry, the research study used a descriptive research technique. Questionnaires and interview guides were used as data collection instruments. To ascertain the feasibility of research tools, a pilot study was conducted, and any necessary revisions were implemented. To assess the data, both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. Following that, tables were used to visually show the data that had been gathered. Findings indicate that capacity building initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing staff skills and program effectiveness, with strong positive correlations observed between capacity building and program performance (r = 0.799, p = 0.000). Similarly, stakeholder involvement emerged as a significant determinant of program success, highlighting the importance of engaging parents, teachers, and students in decision-making processes. The analysis presented a positive association (r = 0.622, p = 0.000) between stakeholder involvement and the performance of school feeding programmes. Moreover, the study underscored the pivotal role of information systems in supporting program management, (r = 0.674, p = 0.000) with stakeholders recognizing the efficiency and reliability of these systems. Study recommended that program managers should prioritize continuous training and proficient advancement opportunities for staff in school feeding programs. This includes workshops, seminars, and skill-building sessions tailored to address specific programmatic needs, such as nutritional planning, food safety protocols, and program management.