Cambodia to expand school meal programme across 7,000 primary schools

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has pledged that his administration will allocate dedicated budget resources and strengthen institutional capacity to roll out the expanded school meal programme, part of broader efforts to enhance educational outcomes in the Southeast Asian nation.

The government initiative targets more than 7,000 primary schools across Cambodia, with officials emphasizing that improved nutrition will directly support student learning and academic performance. The programme expansion reflects recognition of the connection between adequate meals and educational achievement among primary-age children.

Prime Minister Hun Manet stressed the government's proactive approach to implementing the scheme, indicating that enhanced management systems will be put in place to ensure effective programme delivery. The expansion comes as Cambodia pursues multiple education initiatives, including campaigns to prevent school dropouts and strengthen bilateral educational cooperation with neighboring countries.

The school meal programme is expected to benefit hundreds of thousands of students, particularly in rural areas where malnutrition remains a challenge affecting school attendance and learning capacity. Officials have indicated the programme represents a key investment in Cambodia's human capital development and long-term educational goals.