Seibo staff regularly conduct growth assessments for Seibo Kids.
They hold Allocation Meetings, where scholarships are provided to children from families identified as poor, and these children are supported to attend local CBCCs. Here is an overview of the measurement methods:
Ratio of Weight by Age:
This helps evaluate a child’s past and present nutritional status. If a child’s weight is lower than the average weight for their current age compared to standardized data, it indicates nutritional deficiency.
Ratio of Weight to Height:
This assists in assessing a child’s current nutritional status. If a child’s weight is low compared to their height, it suggests possible malnutrition.
Ratio of Height by Age:
This aids in evaluating a child’s past nutritional status. If a child’s height is low for their age, it indicates stunted growth.
Through this activity, the impact of the school meal program on children’s health can be understood. Here are some case studies of Seibo Kids monitored in March 2023:
Aaron:
Enrolled at All Saints School. Became a Seibo Kid at age 3. Currently, at 5 years and 5 months, he is growing steadily. Initially, his parents were unemployed, but his mother later started a business selling vegetables at Nthukwa Market. This improved the family’s situation.
Faber:
Attends Atamandike CBCC as a Seibo Kid at age 4. Initially, his father was an irresponsible alcoholic, leading to frequent conflicts between his parents. However, his mother separated from his biological father, started a small business selling fruits, vegetables, and snacks, providing Faber with a caring stepfather. These positive changes stabilized Faber’s home life, and he became more eager to attend school.
Margaret:
Became a Seibo Kid at age 2 years and 3 months. Currently, at 5 years and 8 months, she is graduating from kindergarten to elementary school. Her parents divorced, and her father remarried, leaving Margaret and her siblings without support. Her mother struggled to find employment, leading to days of hunger for the children. Margaret’s health was poor at the time, but she has since grown taller and healthier. She has also overcome social difficulties and now actively participates in class, expressing herself with confidence.