The government of Daniel Noboa announced on March 12 that, in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), it will expand its new school meal model to benefit more than 85,000 students in the National Education System. The initiative aims to strengthen nutrition among children and adolescents while supporting local economies.
The collaboration between the WFP and the Ecuadorian government, through the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (MINEDEC) and the Vice Presidency, is designed to link local food production with improved nutrition and community well-being. The program seeks to promote sustainable and resilient food systems within educational communities.
Ecuador’s new approach to school meals goes beyond simply providing food rations. It incorporates actions related to nutrition, health, agriculture, and education in order to build capacity within educational communities and encourage healthy eating habits from an early age.
With an estimated investment of $13.5 million, this expansion will extend coverage to at least 20 provinces identified as having high levels of vulnerability. Currently, the school meal model serves 37,800 students in both Costa and Sierra regions with a $6.2 million investment. This has contributed to improvements in student nutrition, academic performance, and overall well-being.
This effort is part of broader actions by the Ecuadorian state aimed at strengthening food security and ensuring suitable conditions for learning. Authorities recognize that healthy eating is a fundamental pillar for the comprehensive development of children and adolescents.
