With a dual emphasis on school meals and food assistance, the program is designed to meet the nutritional needs of children while also supporting the wider community through sustainable development efforts.

At the heart of the initiative is the regular distribution of food commodities to schools, enabling the provision of cooked meals or take-home rations for students. This effort not only helps combat hunger but also encourages consistent school attendance, particularly among vulnerable children. The inclusion of diverse and fortified food groups ensures that the meals contribute meaningfully to children's health and development.

To ensure efficient and sustainable implementation, WFP supports the formation and training of parent-teacher associations and school staff. These groups are equipped to manage and oversee school feeding operations, promoting community ownership and long-term impact. A school menu planner is also being introduced to help schools prepare nutritious and cost-effective meals aligned with local preferences and nutritional guidelines.

Beyond meals, the program incorporates education on nutrition and health. Teachers, students, cooks, and parents are actively engaged in sessions that promote better dietary habits and positive behavior change. These efforts are supported through interpersonal communication and social and behavior change communication strategies that reach deep into the community.

Monitoring and reporting play a key role in ensuring accountability and learning. Regular assessments help fine-tune operations and guide future decision-making, ensuring the program remains responsive to local needs. Schools and communities are also supported with essential non-food items and tools necessary for the smooth delivery of meals.

A major strength of the initiative is the integration of the Home-Grown School Feeding (HGSF) model, which sources food from local smallholder farmers. This approach not only boosts the local economy but also creates new livelihood opportunities, linking education and food systems in a way that benefits the entire community.

Expected outcomes of the program include stabilized school enrolment, increased attendance, and reduced gender disparities in education. At the same time, it contributes to improving local livelihoods and strengthening the overall response of the education sector in the region. Through this coordinated effort, WFP is helping lay the foundation for a healthier, more educated, and food-secure future in Blue Nile.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.

Click here to Apply