The Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, announced that the government has made a policy decision to continue the “School Nutrition Programme” aimed at reducing anemia among schoolchildren, in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP).
Speaking at a discussion held today (April 23) at the Presidential Secretariat with representatives from relevant ministries, international organizations, and partner institutions, Dr. Kumanayake emphasized the programme’s uninterrupted continuation as a national priority.
The initiative, which provides nutritious lunches to primary school students in malnutrition-prone districts, is designed to address iron deficiency. It is coordinated by multiple stakeholders, including the Ministries of Education and Health, Provincial Councils, the Food Promotion Board, and the Partnership Secretariat for WFP Cooperation. For 2025, the government has allocated Rs. 32 billion to support the effort.
A pilot project is currently underway in four districts, incorporating fortified rice enriched with iron and folic acid. A formal health and nutrition study is being conducted to assess its effectiveness in reducing anemia, with plans to expand the programme nationwide based on its findings.
The World Food Programme, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gateway Foundation, and the Pathfinder Foundation have pledged their continued support.
Key officials present included Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Ministry of Education Nalaka Kaluwewa, Secretary to the Ministry of Health Dr. Anil Jasinghe, and other senior representatives.
