The Ghana School Feeding Programme has overhauled its 16 regional ecological menus to guarantee that pupils are provided with “adequate, balanced and nutritious meals,” according to the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey.
Speaking in Parliament, the Krowor MP explained that this reassessment aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s “resetting agenda” for the initiative.
Backed by the World Food Programme and the Korea International Cooperation Agency, the scheme is currently trialling School Connect.
This international digital monitoring software aims to oversee adherence to the authorised menus whilst enhancing accountability during food preparation.
Furthermore, utilising assistance from the World Bank, the Ministry has created School Menu Cards designed to direct caterers regarding food volumes, portion sizes, and nutritional benchmarks.
Headteachers and education authorities have already received training to oversee compliance with these guidelines.
Countrywide skills development sessions have also been conducted for caterers and head cooks, focusing on food hygiene, safety practices, nutrition, and meal preparation according to GSFP operational protocols.
In a bid to enhance nutritional value economically, she noted that soya bean powder has been incorporated as a protein supplement for various dishes. These include ‘banku’, ‘tuo zaafi’, ‘kenkey, rice balls, ‘waakye’, jollof rice, soups, and stews.
“Routine monitoring at national, regional, district and school levels is ongoing to ensure quality assurance,” Dr. Lartey stated.
She re-established the government’s dedication to upgrading the standard, safety, and nutritional content of food within the existing grant distribution system.
“We are confident these measures will strengthen service delivery and improve nutritional outcomes for school children,” she concluded.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana