Sindh Unveils Hot Meal Programme for Schoolchildren with WFP

In a significant move to combat child hunger and improve learning outcomes, the Sindh government has announced the launch of a pilot School Meals Programme in Malir District for the academic year 2025–2026. Backed by the World Food Programme WFP, the initiative will cater to approximately 11,000 primary students up to grade five, offering them free hot meals each school day. A total of Rs578.39 million has been earmarked for the year-long pilot. The students can check the information that

Joint Funding Structure and Programme Vision

The cost of the programme will be covered through a shared funding approach, with the Sindh government contributing Rs462.71 million, while WFP will fund Rs115.68 million. The project aims to increase student attendance, strengthen academic performance, and enhance overall nutrition. A key objective is to improve enrolment rates, especially among girls, by providing nutritious meals as an incentive for school attendance.

Meal Logistics, Safety, and Distribution Process

A purpose-built centralized kitchen will be responsible for preparing and packaging the meals, which will include items such as rice or bread, lentils, vegetables, and fruits. Food quality and hygiene will be strictly monitored by the Sindh Food Authority and an appointed Food Safety Officer. WFP will manage implementation through a third-party service provider and oversee monitoring and evaluation to ensure program integrity.

Target Schools and Evaluation Mechanism

The programme will focus on peri-urban schools in Malir that meet basic standards like clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, and minimum enrolment thresholds. An advanced monitoring system will track metrics such as attendance, enrolment, and student retention. The WFP will conduct both baseline and endline evaluations, while EMIS and school data will support the assessment of the programme’s effectiveness. A target of maintaining 70% daily attendance has been set.

Social Benefits and Government’s Commitment

Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah praised the programme’s potential to reduce malnutrition, stimulate local economies through food procurement, and build sustainable community-based food systems. He underscored the initiative’s role in empowering young girls by improving access to education. WFP’s Country Director Coco Ushiyama reaffirmed WFP’s commitment to supporting child and maternal nutrition in Sindh, citing current projects on stunting, wasting, and supplementary feeding. CM Shah concluded by expressing appreciation for the WFP’s support and reiterated Sindh’s focus on nutrition-led development in both education and healthcare.