Construction is underway on a new school cafeteria at Unidad Educativa Olmedo in Portoviejo, as part of the School Feeding Project implemented with the World Food Programme (WFP). The initiative aims to strengthen meal services for thousands of students.
A new school feeding model was launched in June 2025 in partnership with WFP. This model seeks to ensure healthy and varied nutrition, improve menu quality, and promote healthy habits from an early age.
Parent involvement is a key aspect of the project. Families support daily food preparation, and local producers are included in the supply chain, which helps boost the local economy.
In addition to building the cafeteria, infrastructure improvements include expanding storage areas, maintaining sanitary facilities, and upgrading water and electrical systems to provide safer and more functional spaces.
The construction has reached 40% completion with an investment of $46,500. The project is expected to be finished by late November and will benefit over 2,200 students.
Maximiliano Núñez Tomaselli, Zonal Coordinator 4 for Education, Sport and Culture, said: “When students receive nutritious food, they learn better and make full use of their school day.”
Jessica Rodríguez, principal of Unidad Educativa Olmedo, stated: “This project represents a great advance for our institution. The new cafeteria and improvements will allow us to provide a dignified and safe service. We appreciate the support given to our school but above all I want to highlight the great daily work of our parents.”
The Ministry of Education’s collaboration with WFP demonstrates its commitment to ensuring quality school meals and student well-being.
