Improving School Feeding Programmes: The Rollout of DHIS2 in Karamoja

Every day, millions of children around the world go to school on an empty stomach—hunger affects their concentration and ability to learn. 

In Uganda, The World Food Programme (WFP) work includes providing a hot meal to approximately 216,000 students in 315 primary schools in Karamoja, which amounts to 78% of schools in the region. WFP is enhancing its School Feeding Programme (SFP) in Uganda’s Karamoja region by incorporating digital solutions. In partnership with HISP Uganda and leveraging on the already ongoing DHIS2-District Education Management Information System (DEMIS) implementation in Uganda, WFP has adopted the DHIS2 data capture app to streamline data management across the 315 schools in nine districts. Data collection forms were customized into DHIS2-DEMIS and are accessible using either Web or Android devices. All the schools have been equipped with tablets and internet bundles to facilitate timely reporting on a monthly basis. 

A new way to manage data

After a successful pilot in 126 schools, the programme expanded to include 189 more schools. This rollout involved reorienting the district education teams on DHIS2-DEMIS and training head teachers, food focal persons, and their assistants on how to use the DHIS2 data capture app on Android devices effectively.

Key features of the roll-out

• Android Tablets: Each participating school received an Android tablet for data entry.
• Network Connectivity: The tablets are connected to the MTN network, with monthly data recharges provided by WFP.
• Focused Usage: The Secureme app ensures that the tablets are used only for the DHIS2 and other WFP-authorized applications such as the LESS app that scans and submits waybills of food deliveries.

Benefits of the DHIS2 Android app

The DHIS2 Android data capture app is designed to improve how schools collect and manage data. Key benefits include:

1. Offline Access: Teachers can enter data even without an internet connection, which is essential in areas with limited network coverage.
2. Reduced Paperwork: The app minimizes the need for extensive paper records, making it easier to store and retrieve data.
3. Cost Efficiency: By reducing the need to transport paper tools to WFP offices, the app helps cut down on transportation costs.

The introduction of the tablets and the DHIS2 app was met with enthusiasm from teachers. Many adapted quickly to the user-friendly interface, which encouraged active participation during training sessions. Teachers engaged in discussions and asked questions, showing their willingness to learn.

Challenges and solutions

While the response has been largely positive, some challenges have emerged:

• Limited Experience with Technology: Some teachers may find it difficult to report data due to their limited exposure to smart devices.
• Electricity Access: Schools in remote areas may struggle to charge the tablets, affecting their ability to report data regularly.
• Network Connectivity Issues: Poor internet access can hinder data synchronization.

To address these challenges, several solutions were proposed:

• End user manuals and regular practice with dummy data to build confidence of the teachers.
• Moving tablets to town centers for charging when necessary.
• Explore utilizing zero-rated MTN internet to access the app.
• Encouraging teachers to keep the tablets secure.

Looking Forward

The rollout of the DHIS2 data capture app has the potential to significantly enhance data management in schools. While challenges remain, the positive feedback from teachers, coupled with support from the district, WFP, and HISP, suggests a strong start. With ongoing support and adjustments, this initiative could improve the efficiency of the School Feeding Programme, ultimately benefiting students and their learning experiences.

About the partnership

WFP’s work in Uganda includes providing a hot meal to 216,000 students in 315 primary schools in Karamoja. WFP has supported the government of Uganda to join of the School Meals Coalition and development of a first National School Feeding Programme in the country. 

Since 2019, the Ministry of Education and Sports Basic Education department and HISP Uganda have been implementing a research-based programme across 10 administrative units in Uganda. The project aims to transform education data management by leveraging DHIS2, a digital public good, open-source platform to improve data collection, analysis, and visualization to support district empowerment in the education sector. 

For more information: Contact HISP Uganda at prosper@hispuganda.org or WFP Uganda at stella.adoch@wfp.org.