The government will implement the Community-Based School Feeding Programme (SFP) using local agricultural products, with more than $4 million allocated for the scheme this year. PHOTO SUPPLIED
The government will implement the Community-Based School Feeding Programme (SFP) using local agricultural products, with more than $4 million allocated for the scheme this year.
The sub-decree on the implementation of SFP – which aims to enhance the nutrition and education of children in poor and vulnerable areas as well as contributing to increasing food sector productivity – was signed by Prime Minister Hun Sen, Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport Hang Chuon Naron on March 13.
Consisting of 10 chapters and 31 articles, the sub-decree applies to all public schools that have been selected to implement this programme, which is led and managed by the education ministry.
“The education ministry must prepare legal documents, management systems, training and capacity development related to the implementation of the programme,” states the sub-decree.
The sub-decree also covers the construction of physical infrastructure, kitchen construction standards and student dining areas at target schools in the programme implementation manual.
It makes available a food allowance for students and provides a formula for determining the number of students who will receive the allowance for each study shift at targets schools.
“The education ministry must prepare the annual operating budget report, including minor repairs, purchasing of kitchen and sanitary materials needed for programme implementation. The ministry must attach detailed information to the finance ministry for review and approval. The report must be done prior to the end of March each year,” said the sub-decree.
Local agricultural products are defined by the sub-decree as products from the community such as rice, meat, fish, dairy, vegetables, fruits, grains and food containing micronutrients, which come from the first producer to supply the public schools.
Education ministry spokesman Ros Soveacha said on March 14 that good nutrition contributes to enhancing studies and teaching quality and also leads to a better quality of life.
“The ministry welcomes and thanks all stakeholders for cooperating to improve the nutrition and academic health of students and stakeholders,” he said.
According to the sub-decree, the programme will be implemented in 427 target schools with a total of 110,645 beneficiary students across 10 provinces: Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Stung Treng, Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, Kampong Chhnang and Pursat.
