The National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional, BGN) is pushing for the integration of nutrition education into the national school curriculum. The proposal has been presented to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) with the aim of nurturing healthy, intelligent, and globally competitive Indonesians. According to Ikeu Tanziha, a member of BGN’s Nutrition Expert Council, incorporating structured nutrition education within the school system is essential for developing a comprehensive understanding of nutrition from a young age.
Nutrition is not only about food, but it also shapes the future. A child who is knowledgeable about nutrition will grow up to be healthy, think critically, and make meaningful contributions to the nation, as stated by Ikeu. Schools are seen as ideal platforms for providing systematic nutritional knowledge to students. Early exposure to nutrition education helps students understand the connections between diet, health, and overall well-being, while encouraging them to make healthier choices in their lifestyles.
The proposed curriculum will cover essential topics such as basic nutritional principles, categorization and portioning of food groups, the role of nutrients in bodily functions, and the negative impacts of unhealthy eating habits. Additionally, nutrition education will raise awareness among students about the importance of a balanced diet and empower them to make informed dietary decisions. It also plays a significant role in preventing diet-related diseases like obesity and diabetes.
Furthermore, students will gain practical skills such as cooking and gardening that can be applied in their daily lives. The integration of nutrition education into the school curriculum is expected to establish a cohesive relationship between schools, families, and communities, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrition across all sectors of society. Ikeu emphasized that nutrition education provides students with the knowledge and skills to lead healthy lives, support disease prevention efforts, and contribute to an improved quality of life in the future.
As the agency responsible for executing national nutrition programs, BGN has implemented various educational initiatives, including social media campaigns through YouTube podcasts and promotional videos in relevant locations like kitchens, schools, and markets for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. BGN urges all stakeholders, including government authorities, schools, parents, media, and the public, to endorse the integration of nutrition education into the school curriculum as part of the national movement towards realizing Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045.
Ikeu concluded by emphasizing that the full potential of the Free Nutritious Meals Program will only be realized when complemented by comprehensive nutrition education that resonates throughout all societal levels.
