School Meals Programme Supports Children and Jobs

Jordan is expanding a school meals programme that improves children’s nutrition and attendance while creating employment opportunities for women through local food production and community kitchens.

“These findings show how healthier school meals can shape eating and activity patterns early, offering a practical response to rising childhood obesity and sedentary behaviours,” said the programme’s evaluation team.

A large-scale evaluation across 473 schools found that pupils receiving fresh, nutritious meals had more diverse diets, spent 8% less on sugary and fatty snacks, were more physically active and attended school one additional day each year. The programme also increased income, confidence and life satisfaction among women employed in community kitchens. Building on these results, Jordan has expanded the initiative to refugee communities, with support for more than 74,000 students in vulnerable areas and refugee camps. By linking nutrition, education and local employment, the programme is helping strengthen both the future workforce and economic opportunities today.