The report provides interconnectedness between Education and Nutrition. It was published to coincide with the Nutrition for Growth summit hosted by France.
Global Context:
- 47% of primary school pupils globally benefit from school meals (as of 2024).
- Nutritional quality often inadequate, affecting health and academic performance.
- Nutritious meals boost school enrolment and attendance rates.
Key Findings of the UNESCO Report:
- 27% of school meals (2022) lacked nutritionist involvement in design.
- Only 93 of 187 countries have school food legislation.
- 65% of these countries have standards for cafeteria and vending machine foods.
Health Implications:
- Childhood obesity rates have more than doubled since 1990.
- Food insecurity remains a major concern.
- Need for fresh, locally sourced foods to promote healthy eating habits.
Complementarity Between Nutrition and Education
- Nutrition Affects Education and Learning:
- Integrated Child Development Scheme led to a 9% increase in secondary school completion and 11% in university completion.
- School Meals Impact Enrolment, Attendance, and Learning:
- In Maharashtra, bio-fortified pearl millet improved attention and memory among adolescents.
- Nutrition Impacts Gender Equality and Justice:
- PM-POSHAN in India positively influenced girls’ enrolment and benefited disadvantaged groups.
- Education Affects Nutrition:
- Educated mothers make better health and nutrition choices, impacting intergenerational well-being
Successful Global Initiatives:
- Brazil: National school feeding programme limits ultra-processed foods.
- China: Dairy and vegetables improve nutrient intake in rural schools.
- Nigeria: Home-Grown School Feeding Programme boosts enrolment by 20%.
- India: Fortified organic pearl millet in Maharashtra enhances adolescent cognition.
Recommendations & Future Actions:
- Governments to prioritize fresh produce and reduce sugary, ultra-processed foods.
- Integrate food education into school curricula.
- UNESCO to develop tools and training programmes for effective nutrition integration.
