The Government of Daniel Noboa announced on March 12 an expansion of its school meal program in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), aiming to benefit more than 85,000 students in the National Education System. The announcement coincided with International School Meals Day.
The initiative seeks to strengthen nutrition among children and adolescents while supporting local economies. According to the government, this collaboration between the WFP, the Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture (MINEDEC), and the Vice Presidency promotes a school meals model that connects local food production with improved nutrition and community well-being. The program is designed to foster sustainable and resilient food systems within educational communities.
Ecuador’s new approach to school meals goes beyond simply providing food rations. It incorporates actions related to nutrition, health, agriculture, and education in order to build capacity within educational communities and encourage healthy eating habits from an early age.
With an estimated investment of $13.5 million, the expanded model will reach at least 20 provinces identified as having high levels of vulnerability. Currently, the program serves 37,800 students in both Costa and Sierra regions with a $6.2 million investment, contributing to better nutrition, academic performance, and overall student well-being.
This effort is part of broader actions by the Ecuadorian state to enhance food security and ensure suitable learning conditions for students. The government emphasized that healthy eating is a fundamental pillar for the comprehensive development of children and adolescents.
