Assessment on the Effects of Child Undernourishment on the Academic Performance of Students in Governmental Primary School: The case of Atselibnedingel governmental primary school in Addis Ababa
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2015-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The development of a nation is closely interlinked with the education level and nutritional status of its population. Various studies have provided evidence of the importance of proper nutrition to the cognitive development of an individual which also affects their educational achievements. This thesis assessed the effects of undernourishment on the academic performance of “Atse libnedingel” governmental primary school students, in Addis Ababa, “Kechene” slum and the factors of undernourishment. Methodologically, the research is informed by qualitative case study approach. The study was undertaken utilizing an in-depth interview and document review. Thirteen students from 12-18 age intervals were purposively selected and additionally six teachers and school principals were interviewed. Information of the academic performances was extracted from the students‟ report cards, teachers‟ evaluation of the students, their class activities, study habit, attention and memory in the class and by their interaction with their peers and teachers. Major findings in this study are, the undernourishment of the students was significantly related with income and occupation of the parent, household size and sex of the household head and undernourishment of the students shows an effect on their score and grade, memory and attention, interaction with their teachers and peers and on their school activities. Improving the socio-economic status of the parents and school feeding program will lend a helping hand in the academic performance of the students. Since good nutrition is associated with better academic and intellectual performance it must be emphasized
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Social Work