National School Feeding Strategy 2021 - 2025.

The National School Feeding Strategy 2021-2025 serves as a comprehensive roadmap to ensure that public school students receive nutritious meals aligned with scientific dietary standards. The Ministry of Education aims to enhance the current school feeding program, transforming it into a sustainable national initiative that is impactful, efficient, and effective in supporting long-term human resource development. By implementing this strategy, the Ministry contributes to national efforts to improve citizens' well-being, strengthen social safety nets, and provide educational, health, and economic benefits, particularly in vulnerable areas. Schools play a crucial role in: (i) enhancing children's nutritional status to support healthy growth and reduce health disparities, (ii) improving educational outcomes by ensuring that proper nutrition supports cognitive development, and (iii) equipping students with lifelong knowledge and skills to make informed food choices for themselves and their families. School feeding programs are essential in addressing poverty and social vulnerabilities. On designated feeding days, the program provides one meal per day, covering approximately 11% of a child’s annual meals. These programs deliver high returns on investment, both in human development and economic growth. Research shows that school health and nutrition programs contribute to a more equitable and inclusive learning environment, enhancing students' physical, social, and emotional well-being. A well-balanced breakfast significantly boosts memory, concentration, comprehension, and problem-solving abilities, leading to improved academic performance and overall student engagement.
The National School Feeding Strategy (2021-2025) is built on three strategic pillars, each designed to guide stakeholders in strengthening and expanding the program’s impact: (1) Enhancing the National School Feeding Programme by improving its effectiveness to support children’s nutrition, health, and overall well-being while contributing to community livelihoods; (2) Strengthening Institutional Capacities by developing the necessary frameworks, resources, and expertise to ensure the efficient implementation of school feeding initiatives; and (3) Fostering Synergy with Child Health and Nutrition Programs by promoting multi-sectoral coordination, integrating complementary support, and encouraging innovative, community-driven initiatives to maximize the program’s benefits.