Feeding classrooms, fueling futures: School nutrition transforms education and communities

School nutrition programs are driving improvements in education, reducing inequality, and boosting long-term economic growth, experts said on World Food Day 2025, citing successful initiatives in India and other countries.

Shridhar Venkat, CEO of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, highlighted the link between adequate nutrition and learning outcomes.

“When I think about education today, I see millions of children showing up to learn despite poverty, conflict, or disability. Their determination to succeed despite these obstacles represents our generation's most critical opportunity to make a real difference,” he said.

This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” underscores the value of feeding children properly. Venkat said the benefits extend beyond individual students.

“When you start feeding whole classrooms or schools properly, something bigger happens. Teachers will tell you they see it firsthand: fewer empty desks, kids staying in school instead of dropping out early, and test scores going up across the board. Not just for the top students, but for everyone,” Venkat added.

Experts point to the economic advantages of school feeding programs. Undernourished children often grow into adults who earn less, creating a ripple effect on national economies. Studies show returns of three times or more on investments in school meals.

Venkat also highlighted the impact on educational equality. “Some children arrive at school already energized from breakfast at home, while others sit there unable to concentrate, their stomachs empty since yesterday's lunch.”

“When schools start serving free meals, the change is obvious. Kids who used to skip class start showing up. Girls who would have otherwise dropped out stay in school. Their parents see it too; suddenly their child has a real chance at something better,” he added.

The success of such programs depends on collaboration between public agencies, private companies, and community organizations.

Freshly cooked, nutritious meals reach thousands of schools daily across India, with kitchens maintaining quality and safety standards at scale while minimizing waste and using solar energy.

“When public funding reaches schools, local organizations handle logistics, and corporates invest in long-term technology and innovation, the results are remarkable,” Venkat said.

Data from India, Brazil, and Kenya show that well-implemented nutrition programs improve attendance and learning outcomes and reduce healthcare burdens.

Venkat said children who benefit from these programs today are likely to become the engineers, doctors, teachers, and innovators of 2040.

“That’s the real return on investment,” he added.