MBG Programme Boosts Students' Learning Enthusiasm in Makassar

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Wamendikdasmen) Fajar Riza Ul Haq assesses that the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) is beginning to demonstrate positive impacts on students’ learning enthusiasm and their health conditions.

This was stated by Fajar during his inspection of the MBG Programme at SMA Wahdah Islamiyah, Makassar, South Sulawesi, on Wednesday (6/5). During the visit, he engaged directly in discussions with students, teachers, and health centre staff involved in monitoring the health of participants.

“Students suggested increasing the amount of vegetables and fruits as well as enhancing their variety. This input will be conveyed to the relevant parties for improving MBG services,” he said in an official statement in Jakarta on Thursday.

To date, Fajar continued, the implementation of MBG at the school has proceeded smoothly without any serious issues identified. In addition to monitoring the distribution of nutritious meals, Fajar also inspected the School Health Unit (UKS) facilities and the routine health check-up processes conducted by health centre staff.

According to health staff reports, there are indications of a decline in mild anaemia symptoms following the rollout of the MBG Programme.

“Before MBG, quite a number of students experienced mild anaemia symptoms. After the programme began, a correlation with the reduction of these symptoms has been observed,” said Fajar, quoting the health staff’s explanation.

Nevertheless, the Deputy Minister emphasised that these findings still require further research and evaluation to be scientifically proven.

According to Nanik, input from students and schools is an important part of refining the programme by ensuring that the services provided truly meet the needs of the children.

“Various inputs regarding menu variations and service quality will serve as material for joint evaluation,” said Nanik.

She added that BGN continues to strengthen coordination with local governments and schools to maintain the quality of food and food safety standards in the MBG Programme.

“The MBG Programme is not just about fulfilling nutritional needs, but also a long-term investment in creating a healthy, active, and productive generation towards Golden Indonesia 2045,” said Nanik.