The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program has been found to have a positive impact on children’s concentration levels, as evidenced by improvements in short-term memory assessments. This enhancement is believed to not only increase students’ focus but also sustain their motivation to learn. Research carried out in Aceh showed that students who received Free Nutritious Meals displayed improved concentration, leading to better educational outcomes and a stronger desire to continue learning. Ikeu Tanziha, an Expert Council Member of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), highlighted these findings during a press conference in Jakarta. Another study conducted by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) supported these results, showing that the MBG program helped enhance learning focus and cognitive performance among students in various regions, particularly in Bogor and Papua. The program was especially beneficial for students who did not have breakfast, as demonstrated in a case study at State Vocational School 6 (SMK Negeri 6) in Medan. Concentration, according to Ikeu, is closely tied to attention and the brain’s ability to process stimuli, playing a vital role in children’s cognitive development. She also pointed out that concentration can be influenced by factors such as learning motivation, nutritional intake, psychological well-being, and physiological conditions like sleep quality and learning environment design. Key nutrients like protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain development and cognitive function, especially memory capacity. The MBG Program aims to not only address children’s nutritional needs for physical growth but also enhance their cognitive potential and intelligence. Despite challenges related to unhealthy eating habits and limited access to nutritious foods in certain areas, Ikeu emphasized the importance of supporting the Free Nutritious Meals Program for the well-being of future generations and society as a whole.
Improve Children’s Concentration with Free Nutritious MBG Meals
