The National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional, BGN) is pushing for the integration of nutrition education into the national school curriculum. This initiative, which has been proposed to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen), aims to cultivate a generation of healthy, intelligent, and globally competitive Indonesians. According to Ikeu Tanziha, a member of BGN’s Nutrition Expert Council, having structured and integrated nutrition education in schools is essential for fostering a comprehensive understanding of nutrition starting from a young age.
Nutrition education goes beyond just food—it is about shaping the future. Ikeu emphasized the importance of children understanding nutrition to grow up healthy, think critically, and make meaningful contributions to the nation. By introducing essential topics like basic nutritional concepts, food group classification, the role of nutrients in bodily functions, and the consequences of unhealthy eating habits, the proposed curriculum aims to equip students with knowledge to make informed dietary choices.
Incorporating nutrition education into the school curriculum not only enhances students’ awareness of the significance of a balanced diet but also helps prevent diet-related illnesses like obesity and diabetes. Besides theoretical knowledge, students will also gain practical skills such as cooking and gardening, which they can directly apply in their everyday lives. This move is expected to create a collaborative relationship between schools, families, and communities to reinforce the message of balanced nutrition throughout society.
As BGN takes the lead in implementing national nutrition programs, it has initiated various educational efforts, including social media outreach through YouTube podcasts and promotional videos featuring settings like kitchens, schools, and markets relevant to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. BGN 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 mission to achieve the Golden Generation 2045.
In conclusion, Ikeu emphasized that the Free Nutritious Meals Program can reach its full potential when complemented by comprehensive nutrition education that resonates across all levels of society. The integration of nutrition education into the school curriculum is crucial for equipping students with the knowledge and skills to lead healthy lives, support disease prevention, and enhance overall quality of life in the future.
