WFP enhances Education and Food Security in Kassala – Sudan
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In Kassala, Sudan, the World Food Programme (WFP) is delivering a critical initiative aimed at improving access to education and strengthening food security for vulnerable communities.
With a dual focus on school meals and food assistance, the programme addresses the nutritional needs of children while supporting the livelihoods of local producers.
A core component of the programme is the distribution of food commodities to schools, enabling the provision of daily cooked meals or take-home rations. These meals help reduce classroom hunger and are vital in encouraging regular school attendance. Children receive nutritious food that supports their physical and cognitive development, improving their ability to learn and remain engaged in school.
WFP also works with schools and communities to establish and train parent-teacher associations, ensuring strong local involvement in managing and sustaining school feeding activities. The introduction of a school menu planner further enhances this process, allowing schools to provide cost-effective, balanced meals using locally sourced ingredients where possible.
The initiative goes beyond food provision by integrating nutrition education into schools and communities. Students, teachers, cooks, and parents take part in sessions that improve awareness of healthy diets and nutrition-related practices. Social and Behaviour Change Communication approaches extend these messages more broadly, helping shift community norms around food and health.
Monitoring and reporting systems are embedded in the programme to ensure continuous improvement. These mechanisms provide timely data to guide decision-making and keep operations efficient and transparent. Additionally, non-food items essential for food preparation and hygiene are distributed to support safe and effective implementation.
The use of the Home-Grown School Feeding (HGSF) model is a key feature of the Kassala programme. By sourcing food from local smallholder farmers, the initiative not only improves the freshness and cultural relevance of school meals but also stimulates the local economy. This creates opportunities for farmers and suppliers to participate in sustainable value chains linked to school feeding.
The programme aims to achieve several long-term outcomes, including stabilizing enrolment, increasing school attendance, and reducing gender disparities, particularly in primary education. At the same time, it supports improved livelihoods and economic opportunities for those involved in the food supply chain, contributing to a stronger and more functional education sector in Kassala.
WFP’s work in Kassala reflects a holistic approach to development—connecting education, nutrition, and local agriculture to build healthier, more resilient communities across Sudan.
