Dr. Murad Raas, Punjab’s Minister for School Education, launched the ‘School Meal Program’ on Wednesday to tackle hunger and malnutrition among young pupils across the province.
At a ceremony conducted at City District Government (CDG) School in Bharbara, Lahore, the programme was officially started.
With the cooperation of Allah Wallay Trust and Honda Pakistan, free mid-day meals will be offered to pupils in public schools.
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The Education Minister, speaking at the event, noted that a pilot project in this area, which began in November 2020, had yielded outstanding results. He stated that the programme would begin in 100 primary schools throughout the district.
The ‘School Meal Program’ enhanced student attendance, health, and retention in schools where it had already been implemented, according to the minister.
According to him, the schools participating in the initiative have witnessed a 33 percent rise in attendance, as well as a 77 percent improvement in children’ health and BMI levels.
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According to Dr. Raas, the programme will be gradually spread to other districts in order to combat malnutrition and stunted growth among young kids.
The minister also urged the private sector to engage in this laudable endeavour.