The level of malnutrition of students in primary and secondary schools in Edo State: implication’s on academic performance

Olusi FI

Institute Of Education, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State

Email: ikakumo@yahoo.com

Accepted 19 November, 2012

Abstract

The study the level of malnourishment of students in primary and secondary schools in Edo state was carried out in Esan west local government area of Edo state. The study becomes necessary owing to the enormous investment of government in education and unimpressive output in the performance of students in the Nation National Exams like NECO and WAEC to explore other reasons among other for the poor performances. The population of the study comprised of 6909 students out which a sample of 500 was randomly selected. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested in the study. Data were generated by weighing the students and comparing their weight with the standard weight of pupils by age. The results revealed that pupils were generally malnourished between -30- -75kg weight deficits as against their age counterpart in developed countries. The male pupils suffer more malnourishment than the female students. Within schools malnourishment is not significant but between schools. The study recommended in-school feeding and suggested salary and wages increased to ameliorate this problem.

Keyword: Level of Malnutrition in Primary and Secondary Schools