Abstract

The extent to which implementation of school gardening is successful as a means of alleviating poverty and reducing widespread nutritional problems in Nigeria depends on government and non-governmental organisations. Both government and non-governmental organisations play a major role in the support and administration of school garden programs, even at the local level. During times of stress and hunger, gardens provide a major source of household food and income for schools, community members, families and others. However, factors militate against the materialisation of truly effective school gardens in Nigeria. Some of the problems hindering the success of school gardens could be attributed to bureaucratic procedures in the ministries and corresponding delays in funding from the government and non-governmental organisations. Considering the dismal nutritional situation in Nigeria, a well articulated school gardening intervention program is greatly needed to enhance the nutritional status. It is undisputable that vegetables are a valuable source of carotene, iron and ascorbic acid and also contribute vitamin B, calcium and folic acid to the diet. This study sought to identify the obstacles to school garden programs. Evidence in Western Nigeria clearly shows that the factors affecting gardening activities are related to lack of project co-ordination, lack of teacher and student motivation, lack of land in cities and absence of funds to purchase the required facilities for gardening. To achieve better results in gardening projects, the problems hindering their success must be identified and then strategies developed to overcome these obstacles. Once developed, there is need to train teachers, students, school administrators, parents and community members to understand the application of appropriate technologies and best practices needed for successful implementation of gardening programs. The adoption of these strategies will hopefully advance the implementation of school garden programs in Nigeria.