Integrating Nutrition Education into School Curriculum: A Guide

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is pushing for the integration of nutrition education into the national school curriculum to promote the health and competitiveness of Indonesian children. According to Ikeu Tanziha, a member of BGN’s Nutrition Expert Council, incorporating structured nutrition education into schools is essential for cultivating a comprehensive understanding of nutrition from an early age. This initiative aims to help students connect diet with health, encourage healthier lifestyle choices, and prevent diet-related illnesses such as obesity and diabetes. The proposed curriculum will cover topics like basic nutritional concepts, food group classification, nutrient functions, and the importance of balanced diets. Additionally, students will gain practical skills like cooking and gardening, which can be applied in their daily lives. By integrating nutrition education into the school system, BGN hopes to build a stronger connection between schools, families, and communities in promoting balanced nutrition. The agency emphasizes that educating students about nutrition will equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to lead healthy lives and contribute to improving the quality of life in the future. BGN has been conducting various educational initiatives, including social media campaigns and outreach programs to support the Free Nutritious Meals Program. They urge all stakeholders to support the integration of nutrition education into the curriculum as part of Indonesia’s goal to achieve the Golden Generation 2045. Ikeu concluded by emphasizing that comprehensive nutrition education is essential for the success of the Free Nutritious Meals Program and the overall health of Indonesian society.

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