More than 1,800 students in Manta are receiving hot meals as part of the School Meals Program, according to an event held at Teodoro Wolf Educational Unit in San Lorenzo parish. The program aims to support students by providing them with daily meals.
The event was attended by Juan Carlos Rodríguez, Vice Minister of Educational Management; Maximiliano Nuñez Tomaselli, Zonal 4 Coordinator for Education, Sports and Culture; and Mateo Perrone, representative of the World Food Programme (WFP) in Ecuador.
“The School Meals Program not only guarantees adequate nutrition but also becomes a key tool to improve school retention, academic performance and the comprehensive development of our students. These actions reflect the commitment of the National Government to inclusive and quality education,” said Rodríguez.
In Manta, the initiative supports 1,832 students from 12 rural educational units over a period of 114 days between September 2025 and February 2026. The investment for this period amounts to $252,415.
The program is made possible through collaboration among the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture; the World Food Programme; Corporación Favorita; Fundación Favorita; and with support from parents who help prepare the meals.
The school meal model includes more than just food delivery. It incorporates training sessions, connections with local producers, creation of school gardens and activities focused on nutrition, health and gender perspective. The goal is to encourage healthier habits within the educational community.
Through these efforts, government officials say they are committed to advancing public policies that integrate education, nutrition and social development for children and adolescents in Ecuador.
