National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is pushing for the integration of nutrition education into the national school curriculum. The proposal has been forwarded to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for consideration. The main objective is to cultivate a generation of healthy, intelligent, and globally competitive Indonesians. According to Ikeu Tanziha from BGN’s Nutrition Expert Council, incorporating structured nutrition education in schools is essential for instilling a comprehensive understanding of nutrition from an early age.
Nutrition goes beyond just food; it impacts the future. Children who are knowledgeable about nutrition are more likely to grow up healthy, think critically, and contribute positively to society. Schools are seen as the perfect platform for delivering nutritional knowledge systematically. Early nutrition education helps students understand the link between diet, health, and overall well-being, while also promoting healthier lifestyle choices.
The proposed curriculum would cover key topics such as basic nutritional concepts, food group classification, the importance of nutrients in bodily functions, and the negative effects of unhealthy eating habits. Nutrition education would raise awareness about the significance of a balanced diet, enable informed dietary decisions, and help prevent diet-related illnesses like obesity and diabetes. Practical skills like cooking and gardening would also be part of the curriculum.
Integrating nutrition education into the school curriculum is expected to create a harmonious relationship among schools, families, and communities, reinforcing the message of balanced nutrition throughout society. Ikeu highlights the importance of nutrition education in equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for a healthy life, disease prevention, and overall quality of life improvement.
As the agency overseeing national nutrition programs, BGN has carried out various educational initiatives such as social media campaigns through YouTube podcasts and promotional videos focused on the Free Nutritious Meals Program in relevant locations like kitchens, schools, and markets. BGN urges all stakeholders to support the integration of nutrition education into the school curriculum as part of the national aspiration to realize Indonesia’s Golden Generation by 2045.
Ikeu emphasizes that the Free Nutritious Meals Program will only achieve its full potential when paired with comprehensive nutrition education that resonates across all segments of society.
