Jayapura Regency — The Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) implemented in several elementary schools across Jayapura Regency has shown a positive impact on improving students’ motivation to learn. The program is part of the local government’s efforts to support children’s health and enhance the quality of education at the primary level.
The MBG program targets elementary school students as its main beneficiaries by providing nutritious meals regularly at schools. Since its implementation, schools have recorded increased student attendance and noticeable improvements in students’ enthusiasm and participation during classroom activities.
The Head of the Jayapura Regency Education Office stated that the MBG program is not only aimed at fulfilling children’s nutritional needs but also at encouraging a stronger learning spirit among students.
“Students who receive adequate nutrition tend to be healthier, more focused, and more enthusiastic in class. This has a significant impact on the teaching and learning process,” he said.
The program is carried out on every school day, with meal menus prepared according to balanced nutrition standards. Through proper nutritional intake, students are expected to have better concentration and the ability to absorb lessons more effectively.
School administrators have also acknowledged that the MBG program is particularly beneficial for students from economically disadvantaged families. In addition to ensuring children receive sufficient nutrition, the program has helped motivate parents to send their children to school more consistently.
Meanwhile, the Jayapura Regency Government reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the MBG program. Beyond improving educational outcomes, the program is expected to contribute to stunting prevention efforts and the development of high-quality human resources in Jayapura Regency.
Going forward, the local government plans to expand the program’s coverage to reach more schools, ensuring that its benefits are distributed evenly among students.
