Files
Abstract
School feeding programs have primarily been utilized as a tool for poverty-alleviation. However, over time, their role has extended beyond just assisting in the mitigation of poverty, and is more specifically, an integral aspect of childrens educational outcomes. Previous research, especially quantitative studies have shown the significant role of school feeding interventions in terms of enrollment, attendance, and overall educational attainment. Various outside actors have played a critical role in the quality and implementation of these schemes. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Indias school feeding program, the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS), which was first established in 1995. Due to the lack of literature surrounding NGOs and their role in the MDMS, the study examines the role of one NGO, Akshaya Patra, which is noted as the largest school-feeding NGO in the world. Additionally, this dissertation explored how school feeding policies are multidimensional and address socioeconomic issues, specifically child labor. Two primary qualitative methods were used for this dissertation: 1) document review, where I conducted analysis of policy documents surrounding school feeding and child labor, and 2) interviewing, where I conducted semi-structured interviews with members of Akshaya Patra. Data analysis conducted through thematic coding by cross-examining both the documents and interview responses and extracting similar or unique themes.The results of the thematic analysis revealed that school feeding can, in fact, lead to better educational and health outcomes, such as increased enrollment and better hygiene. Additionally, findings indicated that school feeding and child labor policies do often mirror one another, where school meals have been instrumental in rehabilitating former child laborers, increasing retention and leading to better lifelong outcomes. Lastly, the NGO members explained how they have witnessed improvements within socioeconomic issues, such as an increase in cross-class engagement due to the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS).