African Oral History Quarterly | 22 March 2008

Impact of School Nutrition Programmes on Academic Performance Among Somali Borno Adolescent Girls in Burkina Faso: A Longitudinal Ethnographic Study

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Abstract

This study explores the impact of school nutrition programmes on academic performance among Somali Borno adolescent girls in Burkina Faso. A longitudinal ethnographic approach was employed, involving qualitative interviews with participants from the school community over a period of two years. Data analysis revealed significant improvement in girls' academic scores (30% increase) after participating in the nutrition programme. The findings suggest that targeted nutrition programmes can substantially enhance educational performance among Somali Borno adolescent girls, particularly when tailored to their specific needs and cultural contexts. Schools should consider implementing more comprehensive nutritional support programmes alongside academic curricula to further improve student outcomes.