PUNJAB CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif has spearheaded numerous initiatives for the betterment of the province’s people. Yet, the latest endeavour — the launch of the country’s largest school nutrition program — might be her most transformative and impactful effort to date. Launched in Dera Ghazi Khan, this program marks a significant advance in addressing the critical issues of malnutrition and stunted growth among children.
The significance of this programme is amplified by its focus on the most impoverished districts of the province — Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Muzaffargarh—where child malnutrition rates are alarmingly high. By targeting over 400,000 primary school students in these areas, the programme is set to provide nutrition-rich milk packs to children daily. This initiative is more than a health intervention; it is a promise of hope for these children and their families, offering them a chance at a healthier life and a brighter future. The initiative is also expected to be replicated in other parts of the province, providing a scalable solution to a widespread problem. The importance of adequate nutrition during childhood cannot be overlooked. Nutrition directly impacts a child’s physical and cognitive development, and a deficiency in essential nutrients can lead to stunted growth, weakened immunity, and impaired brain function. A child’s diet has a direct effect on their ability to learn, focus, and concentrate in school. By providing milk, which is a complete food source rich in essential nutrients, the programme will ensure that children receive the vital nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Improved nutrition is directly linked to better school performance. This initiative indeed is a crucial step towards promoting child education and ensuring that children stay in school, as healthier children are less likely to drop out due to health-related issues. Such endeavours must continue in the education sector to unlock the true potential of our youth.
