The Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) has proven to significantly improve students’ learning concentration while supporting the realization of quality education. Government evaluations indicate a decline in learning disruptions caused by hunger in schools receiving the program, particularly in several regions where the impact has been substantial.
In this regard, Head of the Legal and Public Relations Bureau of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Khairul Hidayati, emphasized that the program’s impact is clearly reflected in students’ learning activities.
“Proper nutritional intake through the Free Nutritious Meals Program helps improve students’ readiness to learn. Attendance and concentration at school are better maintained,” she stated.
She added that adequate nutrition is closely linked to children’s learning abilities.
“Sufficient nutrition greatly affects concentration and enthusiasm for learning. Through MBG, we aim to ensure that children can study in optimal physical condition,” she stressed.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education reported that MBG has helped reduce concentration disturbances caused by hunger. Based on the evaluation of the “7 Habits of Great Indonesian Children” (KAIH) program, schools implementing MBG recorded a 2.37 percentage point greater reduction in learning disruptions due to hunger compared to schools that have not yet received the program.
A more significant impact was observed in Eastern Indonesia, where learning disruptions decreased by 14.85 percentage points more than in non-recipient areas.
This demonstrates that nutritional interventions through MBG not only fulfill students’ basic needs but also strengthen their readiness to participate optimally in the learning process.
In a separate statement, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, emphasized that MBG is part of a long-term human development strategy initiated by Prabowo Subianto.
“The MBG program launched by President Prabowo Subianto is a long-term investment in Indonesia’s human development. We are preparing the 2045 generation to grow healthy, intelligent, and strong both physically and mentally,” he said.
Support for the program was also expressed by a member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Irma Suryani. She stated that MBG is not merely a food assistance program but a strategic investment to create a superior generation.
“Good nutrition plays a crucial role in children’s brain and physical development. Children who receive nutritious intake will be more active, focused in learning, and have stronger immune systems,” she said.
