Integrating Nutrition Education into School Curriculum: BGN Advocates

National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional, BGN) is pushing for nutrition education to be included in the national school curriculum, with a proposal already submitted to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen). The aim is to cultivate a generation of healthy, intelligent, and globally competitive Indonesians. According to Ikeu Tanziha of BGN’s Nutrition Expert Council, integrating structured nutrition education in schools is essential for fostering a comprehensive understanding of nutrition early on. This education is not just about food but also about the future, as it helps children grow up healthy, think critically, and contribute meaningfully to the nation. Schools are viewed as ideal platforms for imparting nutritional knowledge systematically, enabling students to understand the links between diet, health, and overall well-being while making healthier lifestyle choices. The curriculum would cover topics like basic nutrition concepts, food group classification, the role of nutrients in bodily functions, and the impacts of unhealthy eating habits. Additionally, it would raise awareness about the significance of a balanced diet, empowering students to make informed dietary choices and prevent diet-related illnesses. Practical skills such as cooking and gardening would also be integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to apply them in their daily lives. The integration of nutrition education into schools is expected to strengthen the message of balanced nutrition across society, fostering collaboration between schools, families, and communities. This education equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead healthy lives, supporting disease prevention efforts and enhancing overall quality of life in the future. BGN has implemented various educational initiatives, including social media outreach through YouTube podcasts and promotional videos related to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. The agency calls on all stakeholders to support the inclusion of nutrition education in the school curriculum as part of the national movement to achieve Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045. The Free Nutritious Meals Program can reach its full potential when paired with comprehensive nutrition education that resonates at all societal levels.

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