Global Integrative Studies, School of
ORCID IDs
Michael Atuahene Djan https://orcid.org/0009-0000-8280-9505
Emmanuel Yeboah https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3838-6837
Isaac Sarfo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6914-5764
Michael Kpakpo Allotey https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1535-8253
Asante Vincent Antwi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6182-6410
Document Type
Article
Date of this Version
1-2025
Citation
European Journal of Development Studies 5:1 (January 2025), pp. 8–20.
doi: 10.24018/ejdevelop.2025.5.1.397
Abstract
This study delves into the multifaceted challenges of food insecurity and its profound impact on school readiness among children in Ghana. Utilizing data from the Ghana Statistical Service and the Comprehensive Food Security and Vulnerability Analysis, and employing ArcGIS for spatial analysis, the research maps high food insecurity areas and overlays population density to prioritize interventions. Findings reveal a stark concentration of food insecurity in northern Ghana, worsened by adverse weather conditions, underscoring the urgency for targeted interventions. The study highlights how food insecurity extends beyond nutritional deficits, affecting socio-economic structures and family dynamics. Children in food-insecure households face significant cognitive, socio-emotional, and physical development hurdles, impeding their readiness for school. Nevertheless, resilience emerges as families tap into resourcefulness and social networks to bolster academic achievement. The research advocates for holistic approaches that address nutritional needs, emotional well-being, community support, and educational resources. Policy recommendations emphasize the importance of social safety nets, school feeding programs, and initiatives to enhance parental engagement and community involvement. In essence, this study bridges empirical evidence with practical implications, providing a roadmap for policy and program development. By understanding and addressing the challenges of food insecurity, strategies can be crafted to improve educational outcomes, foster holistic child development, and pave the way for a more equitable future for Ghana’s youth.
Included in
African Studies Commons, Anthropology Commons, Education Commons, Food Studies Commons, Geography Commons
Comments
Copyright © 2025 Michael Atuahene Djan, Emmanuel Yeboah, Isaac Sarfo, Michael lKpakpo Allotey, Abraham Okrah, Desmond Nii Ayitey Mettle-Nunoo, Ben Emunah Aikins, Asante Vincent Antwi, Clement Issaka Anaba, and Clement Kwang.
This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC-BY), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original source is cited.