Urgent actions
Extending Nutritious School Meal Programs to Secondary Students Primary school meal programs are generally well-structured and provide balanced, nutritious meals that support children’s growth and learning. Students have expressed a strong need to extend similar meal programs to secondary school children. • Availability of Healthy and Traditional Food Options There is a clear demand for a wider range of healthy, culturally appropriate, and nutritious food options within school environments. Foods such as idiyappam, kadala (chickpeas), rice and curry, green gram, helapa, aappa, cowpea, sala
... Leer másds, roti, milk, bread, and even occasional treats like ice cream should be made available. These foods must be prepared in a balanced and hygienic manner to ensure they contribute positively to children’s nutritional needs rather than simply filling hunger. • Improving Nutrition Awareness Through Engaging Education It is important to implement awareness and education programs that are interactive, engaging, and age-appropriate. Simply providing information is not sufficient; programs should be designed in creative ways, such as games, competitions, demonstrations, and peer-led activities. • Raising Awareness on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Special attention should be given to educating children about non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Students need to understand the root causes of these conditions and how their daily eating habits and lifestyle choices can influence their long-term health. Supporting Economic Stability of Vulnerable Families Many families face financial challenges that limit their ability to provide nutritious meals consistently. Therefore, programs and initiatives aimed at improving household income, such as livelihood development, skills training, or community-based support, should be strengthened. Leer menos
