Education and nutrition go hand in hand. Proper nutrition is the foundation for children’s learning, while education empowers communities to understand the importance of healthy eating. School feeding programmes go beyond just providing meals – they address nutrition, health, education, and social equity.
In Cambodia, economic pressures and poor health can hinder children’s ability to attend school. Coastal regions like Kep, Kampot, Koh Kong, and Sihanoukville are vulnerable to food insecurity due to economic pressures and climate-related disruptions that impact local agriculture and fisheries. Many families in these areas rely on farming or fishing for their livelihoods, both of which are vulnerable to environmental shocks.
As a result, children’s education often takes a backseat to immediate survival needs.
Co-Action: Breaking Barriers
Through the CO-SAVED project, co-funded by the EU, Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA) provides a daily nutritious meal to children in 26 community pre-schools across coastal provinces: 6 in Kep, 5 in Kampot, 6 in Koh Kong, and 9 in Sihanoukville. These schools receive a meal subsidy of 1,000 Riel (0.25 USD) per student per day.
By improving health and educational outcomes, school feeding programmes contribute to larger global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
Co-Impact: Feeding Futures
Ensuring children are well-nourished means ensuring that they have the opportunity to complete their education. A daily meal is an incentive for children to remain in school, particularly in communities where economic hardship can make education a secondary priority. By providing essential nutrients, we help children grow physically, develop cognitively, and stay engaged in their education.
In sum, school feeding programmes improve focus, classroom performance, and overall health. Well-nourished children are more than just healthy—they are ready to learn and succeed. Together, we can break the cycle of poverty and hunger.
