Effectiveness of Parent-School Communication in Students’ Meal Programs: Evidence from Public Primary Schools in Sengerema District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study explored the effectiveness of parent-school communication in students' meal programs in Public Primary Schools in Sengerema District, Tanzania. The study used a mixed-methods approach; data were collected from a total of 145 participants pupils, parents, school administrators, and school committee members using surveys and interviews. Findings revealed that over 60% of respondents agreed that parent-teacher communication about students' meal programs was unsatisfactory. Approximately 75% agreed that information sharing between parents and schools was inadequate, and around 70% felt that the existing communication methods did not effectively support parental engagement. It shown that, weak and one-way communication leading to low parental engagement, mistrust, and decreased program effectiveness. Also, parents' interest, poor access, low literacy, and lack of clear policies hinder parents in students’ meals programs engagement. The study concludes that communication gaps are the main barrier to effective parental engagement in students’ meals programs. It recommends the development of inclusive and timely communication channels, support from local authorities in enhancing communication infrastructure, and the establishment of national policies that mandate two-way parent-school communication to improve programs sustainability and meaningful parental engagement.