Cultivating Growth: Thnal Kaeng Primary School's Path to Nutritional and Academic Advancement

In the heart of Chikraeng District, Siem Reap Province, Thnal Kaeng Primary School once grappled with adversity. Housing 180 students, half of whom were girls, the school struggled with poverty, hunger among its students, frequent absences, and a distressing dropout rate. Academic performance suffered, and absenteeism cast a shadow over the institution, prompting Mrs. Yon Hea, the school principal, to take action for the holistic well-being and future prospects of her students and the school community at large.

Empowering Students Through Nutrition

Before the introduction of a school feeding programme, students were often too hungry to concentrate due to empty stomachs, resulting in poor academic performance and high dropout rates. Hea observed that children could barely focus on their studies, often leaving class by 09:30 am in search of food, disrupting their learning and compromising their health.

Cultivating Success Through Local Initiatives

Over the last two years, the school underwent a transformation with the establishment of a homegrown school feeding programme. In collaboration with the United Nation World Food Programme (WFP), the school received training in nutrition, food safety, and hygiene, empowering to the principal, cooks, and storekeeper to ensure the daily provision of nutritious meals for the students. 

This success was not achieved in isolation. The synergy among parents, children, and school administrators played a critical role in the programme’s triumph. Parents volunteered their time and donated essential ingredients like spices, garlic, fish paste, sugar, salt, and firewood to the school kitchen. Simultaneously, the school feeding committee engaged in fundraising activities to sustain the programme and support various school activities. 

A Transformed Learning Environment 

The impact of the school feeding programme was profound and immediate. Enhanced nutrition led to a surge in attendance rates, a decline in absenteeism, and remarkable improvements in academic performance. Students exhibited heightened alertness and concentration during lessons, resulting in significant advancements in reading proficiency and overall educational outcomes.

The school feeding programme emerged as a catalyst for change and achievement for this community, showcasing the power of community engagement and the critical role of nutrition in education. The well-being, opportunities, and academic achievements of the students were markedly elevated. By addressing food insecurity, promoting health, and fostering learning capacities, the programme not only enriched the lives of the students, but also contributed to the economic vitality of the local community and rural areas, serving as a safety net for vulnerable children and nurturing their holistic development. 

A Lasting Impact

Hea's unwavering commitment, coupled with the strong support of the community, turned a once dire situation into an inspiring narrative of success. The school feeding programme has ensured that every child at Thnal Kaeng Primary School has the chance to excel academically and enjoy good health. Beyond alleviating food insecurity and fostering well-being, the initiative has sharpened students’ learning capabilities and contributed positively to the local economy. Thanks to this programme, the children of Thnal Kaeng Primary School are now set on a path to a brighter, more promising future.