The Ministry of Education has highlighted the significance of the school feeding programme as a vital initiative in the fight against malnutrition among school-going children in the country.
Victoria Geresomo, Director of Education Planning at the Ministry, emphasised the point during the launch of the National Integrated School Health and Nutrition Policy in Salima.
Geresomo noted that positive changes have been observed, with research showing improvements in children’s health. These health gains, she added, have also contributed to increased primary school enrolment.
Chakufwa Munthali, Director of Partnerships, Operations, and Awards Management at Save the Children, expressed his satisfaction with the launch of the policy. He said the policy would promote good nutritional practices among primary school children and help reduce stunted growth.
Munthali also pledged continued support to the Malawian Government, particularly in relation to school feeding and hygiene initiatives.
Currently, the school feeding programme is active in about 35 percent of schools across the country, with education authorities aiming for 100 percent coverage by 2030.
The policy was developed with support from “Momentum,” a global partnership for health and resilience, as well as USAID.
