Dimbokro's public primary schools are making a significant stride towards ensuring food security for their students. With canteens equipped to serve over 12,800 daily rations, the program offers a vital source of nourishment for a substantial portion of the district's student population. But ensuring its continued success requires a collaborative effort from the government, local communities, and dedicated individuals.
A Coordinated Approach to Public Primary School Canteens in Dimbokro
A recent monitoring and evaluation mission conducted by a team from the General Coordination of the Government Social Program (Psgouv) and the Directorate of School Canteens (DCS) shed light on the program's operations in Dimbokro. Their visit to the EPP Booré school group, located about twenty kilometers from the city center, served as a microcosm of the wider initiative.
The program leverages the support of 24 local agricultural groups specializing in rice and cassava production. As explained by Méhoué Coulibaly, the regional coordinator of school canteens for the DRENA of Dimbokro, these groups collaborate with the State to provide a critical source of sustenance for the students.
Statistics and Challenges: Balancing Needs with Resources
Dimbokro's DRENA oversees a network of 300 public primary schools (EPPs), catering to a student population of 47,821. Notably, girls make up nearly half the student body, with 22,908 enrolled. The government typically offers an average ration of food for 26 days, ensuring a baseline level of food security for the students.
However, the program also faces challenges. While the N'Zi Regional Council offers additional food support annually, resource constraints can hinder local efforts. Affoué Agathe Gbangbo, president of the "Ehouka Éhou" group ("Let's help ourselves" in Baoulé) in Booré, exemplifies this. Since 2021, her group of 22 members has actively supported the canteen, previously producing 3 hectares of rice and donating at least half a ton of food each year. Unfortunately, their activities are currently on hold due to a lack of resources.
The Role of Local Communities: A Pillar of Support
The story of the "Ehouka Éhou" group underscores the crucial role local communities play in the success of Dimbokro's public primary school canteens. Their dedication and resourcefulness directly impact the well-being of the students.
According to Antoine Kouamé Kouassi, director of EPP Booré 2, the school group, consisting of three schools with a combined enrollment of 530 students, has 333 students relying on the canteen meals. These figures illustrate the real-world impact the program has on the lives of these young learners.
Looking Forward: Ensuring a Sustainable Future for Dimbokro's School Canteens
The public primary school canteen program in Dimbokro represents a commendable effort to guarantee food security for a significant portion of the student population. By fostering collaboration between the government, local communities, and agricultural groups, the program provides a vital source of nutrition.
However, to ensure the program's long-term sustainability, addressing the resource constraints faced by local groups like "Ehouka Éhou" is essential. Increased government support, coupled with exploring innovative fundraising initiatives, could significantly bolster the program's resilience.
Dimbokro's public primary school canteens are more than just meal providers; they are a testament to the collective spirit of a community working together to nourish the future generation. By acknowledging the challenges and harnessing the collaborative spirit that underpins the program, Dimbokro's school canteens can continue to be a beacon of hope and sustenance for its students.
