President Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to education, advocating for a curriculum that not only encompasses academic subjects but also provides nutritional support to children nationwide. He highlighted the necessity of integrating modern technologies like artificial intelligence into the educational framework, showcasing the government’s dedication to reforming school education and examination systems.
President Wickremesinghe made these statements during the launch of the “2024 School Meal Program” at Sujatha Balika Vidyalaya in Narahenpita. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, aims to offer nutritious meals to all students in grades 1-5 across the country. Following the president’s directive, breakfast will be served between 7:30 am and 8:30 am, aligning with nutritional recommendations for optimal timing.
The 2024 school meal program, operating under the theme of “Healthy Active Generation,” seeks to address nutritional deficiencies among students, improve daily attendance rates, promote healthy eating habits, enhance academic performance, and celebrate local culinary traditions.
This year’s school feeding program benefits 1.6 million students from primary grades in 9,134 government schools, as well as schools with fewer than 100 students. The government has allocated a budget of Rs. 16.6 billion, distributed directly to the nine provincial councils, with additional support from organizations such as the World Food Program and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Local suppliers contribute to this nutritional initiative, stimulating the country’s manufacturing economy and creating new jobs directly and indirectly.
A transparent financial oversight mechanism is in place to ensure accountability and reporting for all aspects of the school meal program. The Ministry of Education, particularly its Health and Nutrition Branch, is responsible for overseeing and monitoring the program’s management activities to ensure its effective implementation.
Principal Mrs. Priyangika Wijesinghe expressed gratitude to President Ranil Wickremesinghe by presenting a souvenir in recognition of his participation in the event.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, speaking at the event, elaborated:
“Today marks the commencement of the school meal program, a crucial step in achieving one of the government’s main objectives. Education is not only about academic knowledge and exam results but also about ensuring the nutritional well-being of students, aligning with global practices adopted by many nations.
Malnutrition remains a significant challenge in our country, impacting students from all backgrounds. Many students start their school day without breakfast, emphasizing the universal need for school-provided meals.
As we work to modernize our education system, we are focusing on equipping teachers with modern educational techniques and ensuring students gain essential technological skills, including the integration of artificial intelligence into the curriculum. To support this effort, we are establishing AI societies within schools and allocating substantial government funding for research and education, with plans to establish a National AI Centre.
Efforts are also underway to overhaul the education and examination systems, alongside programs to improve English language proficiency among students. These initiatives underscore our commitment to preparing youth for success in a digital and interconnected world.”
Minister of Education Dr. Susil Premajayantha remarked:
“In the past, the food program mainly targeted students in remote areas. However, this year, it extends to providing nutritious meals to first through fifth-grade students nationwide. With funding from President Ranil Wickremesinghe and support from the United Nations Food Program, all 1.7 million primary grade students now receive a nourishing morning meal, improving their readiness for educational activities.”
Secretary to the Ministry of Education Ms. Wasantha Perera added:
“Aligned with the President’s vision for educational reform, the food program aims to enhance children’s nutritional well-being and prepare them for the future. Under the Ministry of Education’s guidance, we are striving to create a knowledgeable society equipped with an education system tailored to modern demands.”
Present at the event were Western Province Governor Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Gunathilake, State Ministers Mr. Vijitha Berugoda and Mr. Arvind Kumar, along with officials from the Ministry of Education, teaching staff, and parents.
