Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has approved a proposal by the Education Minister to provide free meals for students in public and private schools across the country.
The move is aimed at addressing the issue of food insecurity among school-going children, with many struggling to afford nutritious meals. The minister's proposal calls for an allocation of around Rp 3 trillion (approximately USD 210 million) over the next three years to establish a network of meal distribution centers in schools.
Under the plan, students from low-income families will be eligible for free meals, while their parents will be required to contribute a small portion of the cost. The remaining amount will be covered by the government. The initiative is expected to benefit around 10 million students nationwide.
Critics have raised concerns over the proposal's effectiveness and potential logistical challenges. However, proponents argue that it is a step in the right direction towards ensuring every child has access to nutritious food and reducing poverty in schools.
The Education Minister has expressed optimism about the project's success, stating that it will not only improve students' health but also increase their academic performance. The government aims to roll out the program in phases, starting with urban areas before expanding to rural regions.
While the proposal still needs to clear other legislative hurdles, its approval by the DPR marks a significant milestone towards making free meals for students a reality in Indonesia.
The move is aimed at addressing the issue of food insecurity among school-going children, with many struggling to afford nutritious meals. The minister's proposal calls for an allocation of around Rp 3 trillion (approximately USD 210 million) over the next three years to establish a network of meal distribution centers in schools.
Under the plan, students from low-income families will be eligible for free meals, while their parents will be required to contribute a small portion of the cost. The remaining amount will be covered by the government. The initiative is expected to benefit around 10 million students nationwide.
Critics have raised concerns over the proposal's effectiveness and potential logistical challenges. However, proponents argue that it is a step in the right direction towards ensuring every child has access to nutritious food and reducing poverty in schools.
The Education Minister has expressed optimism about the project's success, stating that it will not only improve students' health but also increase their academic performance. The government aims to roll out the program in phases, starting with urban areas before expanding to rural regions.
While the proposal still needs to clear other legislative hurdles, its approval by the DPR marks a significant milestone towards making free meals for students a reality in Indonesia.