An examination of the role of informal education in encouraging healthy eating habits among primary school students in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Healthy eating habits are foundational to the overall development and well-being of children. In Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, informal education has emerged as a vital strategy for promoting nutritional awareness and encouraging healthy eating among primary school students. Informal educational approaches, such as community nutrition programs, school gardens, and interactive workshops, provide engaging platforms where young learners can explore the benefits of nutritious diets outside the traditional classroom setting (Bello, 2023). These programs incorporate hands-on activities that teach children about local food sources, the nutritional value of different foods, and the importance of balanced diets in fostering growth and preventing illnesses (Yusuf, 2024). By integrating cultural practices and community traditions, informal education in Fufore leverages local resources to create contextually relevant learning experiences that resonate with students and their families. The participatory nature of these initiatives encourages children to actively engage in food-related activities—from planting and harvesting to preparing simple meals—thereby reinforcing practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Informal education also fosters a supportive environment where teachers, parents, and community members collaborate to model healthy eating behaviors, thus creating a sustained impact on children’s dietary choices (Aminu, 2025). This study aims to examine the role of informal education in shaping healthy eating habits among primary school students in Fufore by identifying the specific informal practices that most effectively promote nutritional awareness and evaluating their impact on students' dietary behaviors. The research seeks to determine how community-based and school-based initiatives complement formal nutrition education, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for children in the region.
Moreover, adopting healthy eating habits at an early age is critical for establishing long-term health benefits and preventing chronic diseases. Informal education initiatives serve as an essential supplement to formal curricula by providing practical experiences and cultural context, thereby fostering an enduring commitment to a balanced and nutritious lifestyle.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the well-documented benefits of healthy eating, many primary school students in Fufore Local Government Area exhibit poor nutritional habits, largely due to insufficient practical nutrition education. Formal education systems tend to focus on academic subjects, often sidelining holistic health education that emphasizes nutrition and healthy food practices (Adamu, 2023). In response, various informal education initiatives—such as school gardens, community cooking classes, and interactive nutrition workshops—have been introduced. However, the effectiveness of these informal approaches in encouraging healthy eating habits among young learners remains underexplored. Limited resources, inconsistent program implementation, and cultural factors may hinder the impact of these initiatives. There is a need to understand the extent to which informal education influences students' dietary choices and whether it leads to sustainable behavior change. This study seeks to address these gaps by evaluating the impact of informal education on developing healthy eating habits among primary school students in Fufore. It will investigate which elements of informal nutrition education are most influential in shaping positive dietary behaviors and identify challenges faced during program implementation (Ibrahim, 2024). The research will also explore strategies for effectively integrating informal nutrition education with formal health curricula, ensuring that children develop the knowledge and practical skills necessary for lifelong healthy eating habits (Kano, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
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To assess the role of informal education in promoting healthy eating habits among primary school students in Fufore.
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To identify the key informal educational practices that effectively encourage nutritional awareness and healthy dietary choices.
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To propose strategies for integrating informal nutrition education with formal health curricula to improve children's eating habits.
Research Questions:
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How does informal education influence the development of healthy eating habits among primary school students in Fufore?
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Which informal educational practices are most effective in promoting nutritional awareness and healthy dietary behaviors?
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What strategies can be adopted to integrate informal nutrition education with formal health education in primary schools?
Research Hypotheses:
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Primary school students exposed to informal nutrition education exhibit healthier eating habits compared to those who are not.
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There is a positive correlation between participation in informal nutritional programs and the improvement of healthy eating behaviors among students.
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Integrating informal nutrition education with formal health curricula will significantly enhance the development of healthy eating habits among primary school students.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores the potential of informal education in promoting healthy eating habits among primary school students. The findings will provide valuable insights for educators, health professionals, and policymakers on effective strategies for nutritional education. By identifying successful informal practices, the research contributes to the development of integrated educational approaches that foster long-term healthy dietary behaviors. Ultimately, the study aims to enhance the overall health and well-being of children in Fufore, ensuring that they develop the knowledge and skills necessary for a balanced and nutritious lifestyle.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to examining the role of informal education in encouraging healthy eating habits among primary school students in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State. It focuses solely on informal educational practices related to nutrition and does not account for other external factors influencing dietary habits. Data collection is confined to selected schools and community programs, and the findings may not be generalizable to other regions.
Definitions of Terms:
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Informal Education: Learning experiences outside the formal classroom setting, often delivered through community-based activities and hands-on programs.
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Healthy Eating Habits: Dietary practices that promote balanced nutrition and overall well-being.
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Nutritional Awareness: The understanding and knowledge of the benefits of a balanced diet and healthy food choices.
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