In an initiative aimed at bolstering both education and nutrition among the nation’s youth, President Ranil Wickramasinghe inaugurated the “2024 School Meal Program” during a ceremony at Sujatha Girls’ College in Narahenpita.
President Wickramasinghe emphasized the importance of providing children with not only subject knowledge but also adequate nutrition to support their overall development. He underscored the need to incorporate modern technological knowledge, including artificial intelligence, into the education system, signaling a shift in focus towards a more holistic approach.
The program, designed under the theme of “Healthy Active Generation,” targets students in grades 1-5 across 9134 government schools and smaller institutions with fewer than 100 students. With a budget allocation of 16,600 million rupees, the initiative aims to provide a nutritious breakfast to 1.6 million students, fostering better attendance, healthy eating habits, and improved educational outcomes.
Key objectives of the program include addressing nutritional deficiencies, promoting regular school attendance, cultivating healthy eating habits, and contributing to the overall growth of educational achievement levels. By sourcing food from local suppliers, the program also supports the country’s manufacturing economy, leading to job creation and economic growth.
Transparency and accountability are integral to the program’s implementation, with robust financial controls and monitoring mechanisms in place. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Health and Nutrition Branch, is tasked with overseeing all aspects of the program to ensure its effective management and operation.
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