Moiben MP Prof. Phyllis Bartoo Launches Tap to Eat Feeding Programme to Boost Learning and Nutrition

By Wasike Elvis 

Phyllis Bartoo has officially launched the Tap to Eat school feeding programme at GK Magereza Primary School, reaffirming his commitment to improving the welfare of learners through enhanced access to nutrition and education support initiatives.

The programme, implemented under the Food for Education initiative, is expected to directly benefit more than 1,200 pupils drawn from GK Magereza Primary School and Ngomongo Primary School.

The launch ceremony brought together parents, teachers, school administrators, Board of Management members, education stakeholders, and local leaders who hailed the initiative as a major milestone in addressing hunger among school-going children and improving learning outcomes in the constituency.

Speaking during the event, Prof. Bartoo said the programme is designed to ensure that learners have access to affordable and nutritious meals while in school, noting that hunger remains one of the major challenges affecting academic performance and concentration among pupils.

The MP observed that many children from vulnerable families often attend classes on empty stomachs, making it difficult for them to fully participate in learning activities or remain attentive throughout the school day.

According to the legislator, the Tap to Eat programme will play a key role in improving attendance, retention, concentration, and overall academic performance among learners by ensuring they receive healthy meals while at school.

“A child who is well-fed is more active, attentive, and prepared to learn. Through this programme, we are not only feeding children but also investing in their education, health, dignity, and future,” said Prof. Bartoo.

He added that the initiative is part of a broader constituency development agenda focused on creating an enabling environment where every child has an equal opportunity to succeed regardless of their background.

Prof. Bartoo emphasized that education and nutrition go hand in hand, saying school feeding programmes have consistently proven effective in improving enrolment and reducing absenteeism in schools across the country.

He noted that learners are more likely to remain in school and complete their education when they are assured of receiving meals during the day.

The MP further stated that the programme will also help ease the burden on struggling families who sometimes find it difficult to provide adequate meals for their children due to economic hardships.

“Many parents face financial challenges, and some children come to school without breakfast or lunch. This programme is therefore a relief not only to learners but also to families within our communities,” he said.

Prof. Bartoo commended the partnership and support from stakeholders involved in implementing the programme, saying collaboration remains critical in addressing challenges affecting education and child welfare.

He assured residents that the constituency leadership remains committed to expanding the Tap to Eat programme to more schools across Moiben so that no child is left behind.

“We remain committed to expanding this programme to every primary school in Moiben Constituency because investing in nutrition and education is investing in the future of our community,” he stated.

The legislator also challenged education stakeholders, school management teams, and parents to continue working together to ensure the sustainability and success of the feeding initiative.

Teachers who attended the launch welcomed the programme, saying it is expected to significantly improve classroom participation and learner performance.

According to several teachers, hunger has been one of the hidden barriers to effective learning, particularly among pupils from vulnerable households.

They noted that with regular meals available at school, learners are likely to remain more focused, energetic, and motivated throughout the day.

Parents also expressed gratitude for the initiative, saying the programme will help improve the welfare of their children while reducing the pressure many households face in providing daily meals.

Some parents observed that school feeding programmes not only encourage children to attend school regularly but also contribute to improved health and social well-being.

Education stakeholders at the event described the initiative as a timely intervention that aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen access to quality education and improve learning conditions in public schools.

They called for continued support and expansion of similar programmes across the region, noting that nutrition remains a critical component in the academic and personal development of children.

The launch of the Tap to Eat programme adds to several education projects being championed in Moiben Constituency under Prof. Bartoo’s leadership, including infrastructure development, improvement of school facilities, and initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable learners.

Residents and school leaders expressed optimism that the programme will have a long-term positive impact on learners, schools, and the wider community by helping create healthier, more productive, and academically successful children.