The National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional, BGN) is pushing for the integration of nutrition education into the national school curriculum. This initiative aims to cultivate a generation of healthy, intelligent, and globally competitive Indonesians. According to Ikeu Tanziha, a member of BGN’s Nutrition Expert Council, integrating nutrition education in schools is essential for instilling a deep understanding of nutrition from an early age.
Nutrition education goes beyond just food—it shapes the future. A child who is knowledgeable about nutrition will grow up to be healthy, think critically, and make meaningful contributions to society,” Ikeu emphasized. Schools provide an ideal platform for systematically imparting nutritional knowledge, helping students understand the link between diet, health, and overall well-being and promoting healthier lifestyle choices.
The proposed curriculum will cover essential topics such as basic nutritional concepts, food group classification, the role of nutrients in bodily functions, and the consequences of unhealthy eating habits. It aims to increase students’ awareness of the importance of a balanced diet, empowering them to make informed dietary decisions and preventing diet-related illnesses like obesity and diabetes.
Moreover, nutrition education will equip students with practical skills such as cooking and gardening, which they can apply in their daily lives. By integrating nutrition education into the school curriculum, a synergistic relationship can be created between schools, families, and communities, spreading the message of balanced nutrition throughout society.
BGN’s efforts to implement national nutrition programs involve various educational initiatives, including social media outreach through YouTube podcasts and promotional videos related to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. The agency urges all stakeholders—government bodies, schools, parents, media, and the public—to support the integration of nutrition education into the school curriculum as part of Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045 vision.
Ikeu concluded that the Free Nutritious Meals Program will only reach its full potential when complemented by comprehensive nutrition education that resonates across all levels of society.
