Nutrition Goes to School

10 Years of NGTS: SEAMEO RECFON Highlights Good Practices from Schools Across Southeast Asia

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 05:31:29 +0000

Jakarta, 23 August 2026 – As SEAMEO RECFON celebrates the 10th anniversary of Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), the role of schools as drivers of change in promoting healthy eating and nutrition education took centre stage during an interactive panel discussion titled “NGTS Schools in Action: Impact for AWESOME Generations.” Held as part of the hybrid anniversary celebration at Plaza Insan Berprestasi, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia, the session brought together representatives from four model schools across Indonesia, alongside regional partners from Malaysia and Lao PDR.

Moderated by dr. Yesi Crosita Okta, M.Sc, Ph.D, Lecturer in Community Nutrition at UPN Veteran Jakarta the discussion explored how schools have transformed nutrition education into practical initiatives while addressing challenges such as limited resources, parental engagement, limited space, and demanding academic curricula. The stories also highlighted how the NGTS approach continues to inspire the development of AWESOME generations-Active, Well-nourished, and Smart of Me through locally driven and sustainable action.

Representatives from four NGTS model schools shared how they adapted nutrition education to their respective school environments, cultures, and available resources. At SDN 176374 Dolok Nauli, Toba, North Sumatra, School Principal Launa Yeni Abadi Simanjuntak highlighted the integration of nutrition into learning activities. The school developed six original co-curricular modules on healthy food, introduced educational nutrition models and the Isi Piringku campaign, and incorporated environmental activities into its programme. These initiatives were brought together under “Nature,” a Batak expression meaning “very good.”

At SMPN 7 Kota Cirebon, West Java, School Principal Eis Sulastri shared the school’s transformation of its healthy canteen and school environment. In collaboration with the local health laboratory, the school developed a healthy canteen that complies with food safety and halal standards. Despite being located in a densely populated area, the school also established a “School Forest” featuring more than 20 types of fruit trees. The school further introduced quail and chicken farming, producing hundreds of quail eggs each day. Beyond providing a source of animal protein and hands-on learning, these activities also introduced students to entrepreneurship. The school has also shared its practices with neighbouring schools, including initiatives to process dragon fruit peels into healthy sauce.

At SMAN 1 Singosari, Malang, East Java, teacher Wiwi Widati described the school’s efforts to promote healthier lifestyles through peer engagement. Its “Hebat Juara” healthy canteen promotes healthier food choices while implementing cashless payment and reducing single-use plastics. The school also runs “Remaja Asik”—Aktif, Sehat, Pintar, Kreatif (Active, Healthy, Smart, Creative)—and nutrition ambassador programmes to support peer counselling. Other activities include mushroom and catfish farming, a vegetable-eating campaign known as Gemas (Gerakan Makan Sayur), and regular iron supplementation.

Meanwhile, MTsN 2 Bantul, Special Region of Yogyakarta, represented by teacher Susanti, combines nutrition education, physical activity, and environmental awareness through its “Jumaria” (Jumat Ceria) programme. The weekly activity brings together Qur’an memorisation, exercise, and shared nutritious breakfasts. The school also manages a healthy school garden, develops catfish farming and aloe vera-based products, and incorporates environmental education through an ecotheology-based curriculum. Together, these examples demonstrate how NGTS can be adapted into practical and locally relevant programmes, rather than relying on a single model or approach.

At REAL International School (REAL School), Malaysia, in partnership with Dr. Yong Heng Heo from IMU University, the program focused on translating capacity building and action plans into hands-on student activities. Initiated in 2023, the collaboration engaged school management, teachers, and canteen representatives to establish a strong foundation of readiness. IMU University integrated its nutrition and dietetics students into selected school activities and invited REAL School students to the university campus for interactive, experiential learning on healthy eating and practical nutrition. The partnership emphasized that long-term sustainability relies on shared ownership among a school team rather than a single champion, embedding nutrition into existing school routines, and conducting ongoing orientation and monitoring

In Lao PDR, the pilot program was launched in October 2023 across three primary schools in the remote Sangtong district, under the guidance of Dr. Souli Gotay from the National Nutrition Center, Ministry of Health. Teachers were trained to design balanced daily menus using local ingredients and integrate nutrition education with essential hygiene routines like handwashing and clean water. The program implemented climate-friendly practices, including plastic reduction, organic farming, and school gardens utilizing soil and hydroponic systems. These gardens served a triple purpose: promoting physical activity, serving as outdoor classrooms, and supplying nutrient-dense produce to support the school lunch budget of 10,000 Kip per child. Despite challenges in remote monitoring, the pilot highlighted that sustainability requires strong local ownership, active community engagement, and multi-sectoral synergy between health and education ministries

The discussion concluded with a reflection from Wiwi Widati on the importance of leadership and commitment in sustaining school nutrition initiatives. She recalled that introducing healthier eating habits among high school students was not always easy and initially faced resistance. However, the school remained committed to its original goals, supported by strong school leadership and policies that enabled the team to continue its work.

The experiences shared during the panel demonstrated that sustainable nutrition education does not necessarily require extensive resources. Strong leadership, collaboration, community participation, and the ability to integrate nutrition into existing school activities can create meaningful and lasting change. As SEAMEO RECFON celebrates 10 years of NGTS, these stories from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Lao PDR reflect how nutrition education can grow beyond individual programmes and become part of a broader culture of healthy living. More importantly, they demonstrate the power of schools to become centres of change—nurturing AWESOME generations that are Active, Well-nourished, and Smart of Me.

Symbolizing the ‘NGTS House’ in Celebrating 10 Years of NGTS: SEAMEO RECFON Brings Partners Together for AWESOME Generations

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 05:26:38 +0000

Jakarta, 23 August 2026 – A decade of SEAMEO RECFON’s Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) programme came to a symbolic close—and a new chapter began—at Plaza Insan Berprestasi, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia. Held under the theme “One Decade of NGTS: Nurturing AWESOME Generations (Active, Well-nourished, and Smart of Me) from Indonesia to Southeast Asia,” the 10th Anniversary celebration brought together government officials, representatives from ministries and institutions, regional SEAMEO leaders, teachers, and students to commemorate a decade of collaboration in advancing school-based nutrition.

At the heart of the celebration was the symbolic construction of the “NGTS House,” representing the shared commitment of different sectors to creating a healthier and more supportive environment for children to grow, learn, and thrive.

The celebration opened with the national anthem Indonesia Raya and SEAMEO Colors, followed by a report on the programme’s 10-year journey delivered by Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp.A(K), Director of SEAMEO RECFON. Reflecting on the programme’s beginnings in 2016, Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp.A(K) emphasised that nutrition has always been viewed as a long-term investment in children’s development.

“We started with a simple belief: children cannot learn optimally when their health and nutritional needs are not adequately supported. As a paediatrician, I see nutrition not only as something needed today, but as a long-term investment for children to grow, develop, stay active, and ultimately become healthy and productive adults.”

Over the past decade, NGTS has trained more than 3,500 educators and supported 279 schools and madrasahs across Southeast Asia, while developing 41 Independent Schools across 11 districts and cities in Indonesia.

The Indonesian government also reaffirmed the importance of school nutrition as part of a broader education ecosystem. Dr. Tatang Muttaqin, Ph.D., Director General of Secondary and Special Education at the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, delivered a written speech on behalf of the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, who was unable to attend due to another urgent engagement.

In his remarks, Dr. Tatang Muttaqin, Ph.D. highlighted the importance of using the lessons from NGTS’s first decade to strengthen future efforts. He also emphasised the relevance of school nutrition to the government’s current national priorities, including the Free Nutritious Meals (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) programme.

He also appreciated NGTS’s approach of allowing schools to identify their own challenges and priorities rather than applying a rigid, one-size-fits-all model. This approach, he noted, is aligned with the principles of participatory, transparent, and accountable school-based management. Once all the pillars and the roof were installed, the NGTS House stood completely on stage. The symbolic construction was followed by a joint commitment signing, with invited officials signing the house structure as a visible expression of their support for the continued development of school-based nutrition.

The moment was further joined by Dr. Temu Ismail,, Secretary of the Directorate General of Teachers and Education Personnel at the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education; Dr. Maulani Mega Hapsari, SIP., MA, Director of Junior Secondary Schools at the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education; and Sugito, choreographer of the Senam Anak Indonesia Hebat, who took part in a commemorative group photograph with the key figures supporting the celebration.

More than a ceremonial installation, the NGTS House represented a decade of collective work and a commitment to continue strengthening nutrition education through schools. As SEAMEO RECFON celebrates ten years of NGTS, the house also serves as a reminder that nurturing healthier generations cannot be achieved by one institution alone. It requires collaboration among schools, families, communities, government institutions, and regional partners. With the first decade now complete, the foundation has been laid for the next chapter—continuing to empower schools and madrasahs across Indonesia and Southeast Asia to nurture generations that are Active, Well-nourished, and Smart of Me: the AWESOME generation.

10th Nourishing Minds and Bodies in the Digital Era: Insights from 10 Years of NGTS Anniversary Talkshow

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:47:42 +0000

Jakarta, 23 August 2026 – As part of SEAMEO RECFON’s celebration of the 10th anniversary of Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), hundreds of participants joined the talkshow “Healthy Mind, Healthy Eating, and Self-Love: The Art of Nourishing Ourselves in the Digital Age” at Plaza Insan Berprestasi, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia. Held in a hybrid mode, the session explored the connection between mental well-being, eating behaviour, and self-acceptance among children and adolescents in today’s digital environment.

The talkshow was moderated by Nadya Rizki Fadilah, MGZ, Research Consultant at Landscape Alliance and featured dr. Mira Dewi, M.Si, Ph.D, academic and medical nutrition researcher at IPB University, and dr. Eva Devita Harmoniati, Sp.A(K), paediatrician and consultant in social paediatric development at Harapan Kita Women and Children’s Hospital and member of the Child Protection Task Force of the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI). Opening the discussion,dr. Mira Dewi, M.Si, Ph.D explained that children’s nutritional status can be monitored through anthropometric indicators, particularly body weight and height plotted against appropriate growth charts.

However, she emphasised that good nutrition also depends on adequate micronutrient intake, including vitamins and minerals such as iron. Children with adequate nutrition are generally energetic and able to concentrate during learning, while frequent fatigue and difficulty concentrating may indicate certain micronutrient deficiencies. Indonesia continues to face a double burden of malnutrition, with undernutrition and stunting remaining challenges in some areas while overweight and obesity continue to rise, particularly in urban settings. The speakers also highlighted the growing importance of preventing unhealthy eating patterns from an early age, as conditions such as hypertension and diabetes are increasingly affecting younger adults.

To connect the discussion with students’ daily habits, the talkshow invited Muhammad Atala Arif Yusuf, a Grade 9 student from SMP Muhammadiyah 36 Jakarta, and Sena Yasifa Pratiwi, a Grade 11 student from SMK Wikrama Bogor, to showcase their lunchboxes. Atala’s lunchbox included white rice, omelette, seasoned chicken gizzard, fried noodles, mixed vegetables, and full-cream UHT milk. dr. Mira noted that the meal was diverse but contained a double-carbohydrate combination of rice and noodles. She recommended reducing the carbohydrate portions, increasing vegetables, and adding fruit.

Sena’s lunchbox contained white rice, vegetables, plant-based and animal-based protein, and papaya. dr. Mira Dewi, considered the meal well-balanced, with the suggestion to add more dark green vegetables. SMK Wikrama Bogor also supports healthy eating habits through its “Sarapan Bersama” (Breakfast Together) programme, where students have breakfast together every Friday. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A addressing everyday nutrition concerns. For picky eaters, dr. Eva recommended introducing new foods gradually and presenting them in appealing variations, while serving them alongside foods the child already enjoys.

Responding to a question about eating dinner after 7 p.m., dr. Mira Dewi, clarified that weight gain is influenced by overall energy intake and expenditure rather than simply the time of eating. However, eating too close to bedtime may affect digestion and sleep quality, so allowing approximately two to three hours between dinner and bedtime is advisable. For adolescents concerned about stagnant weight gain, dr. Eva emphasised the importance of assessing growth objectively using appropriate growth charts. If nutritional status is already within the healthy range, increasing food intake unnecessarily may instead increase the risk of unhealthy weight gain.

The “Healthy Mind, Healthy Eating, and Self-Love” talkshow at SEAMEO RECFON’s 10th Anniversary Celebration of NGTS highlighted that self-love goes beyond physical appearance. For children and adolescents, self-love also means understanding their bodies, recognising their emotional needs, making informed food choices, and building healthy habits for the future. As NGTS marks a decade of promoting nutrition education, SEAMEO RECFON continues to emphasise that healthy eating is not only about what we eat, but also why and how we eat—an important foundation for healthier individuals and future generations.

10th-Anniversary Series of the NGTS Program Highlighted by Free Health Check-Up Service in Collaboration with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Health Office

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:40:45 +0000

Jakarta — The Free Health Check-Up (CKG) service was one of the featured event series at the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) Program on 23 August 2026, at Plaza Insan Berprestasi, Complex of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta. In collaboration with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Health Office as a co-organizer partner, this initiative provided early health detection access for event participants, comprising teachers, education personnel, and members of the public in attendance.

The service covered 11 screening components, ranging from anthropometric measurements of nutritional status, blood pressure, and blood chemistry screening (blood glucose, cholesterol, and uric acid) to visual acuity and dental examinations. The service post also provided early detection facilities for cervical cancer via IVA tests and clinical breast examinations (SADANIS), served through eight examination desks equipped with an integrated digital queuing system.

All examination results were directly integrated with the SATUSEHAT digital health record platform of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. This technological integration allows participants to regularly monitor their personal health status even after the decade-long NGTS celebration concludes. The tangible benefits of this screening were directly experienced by the attendees. One participant expressed appreciation after completing the entire series of examinations, “I feel healthy and much more relieved. Now I know my health condition for sure. This activity is extremely beneficial for attendees because we could receive a complete check-up for free, from eye and dental checks to cholesterol and cervical screening.”

Another participant also appreciated the service for helping detect potential physical issues that often go unnoticed, “I feel very helped. All this time, I felt completely fine, but after the check-up, it turned out there was a slight issue with my eyes, probably from staring at device screens for too long. This is why free health check-ups like this are important, as medical examinations help us identify conditions that need prompt follow-up.”

This collaboration with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Health Office emphasizes the importance of early detection in maintaining the physical well-being of the school community and the wider public. Through the provision of digitally integrated, free health services, the 10th-anniversary celebration of NGTS continues to foster an AWESOME generation—Active, Well-nourished, and Smart of Me, that cares for their physical well-being for a healthier future.

Learning, Playing, and Growing: A Fun Nutrition Adventure at the 10 Years NGTS Showcase

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:32:54 +0000

Jakarta, 23 August 2026 – The 10th-anniversary celebration of Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), one of SEAMEO RECFON’s flagship programmes, extended beyond the main stage through the “10 Years NGTS Showcase.” Held at Plaza Insan Berprestasi, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen RI), Jakarta, the showcase transformed the exhibition area into an interactive learning space where students, teachers, and visitors could explore nutrition through games, hands-on activities, and school innovations.

Featuring approximately 18 exhibition booths, the showcase introduced visitors to practical approaches to nutrition education. One of its main attractions was the Stamp Rally, which encouraged participants to explore different booths, complete challenges, and collect at least 10 stamps representing the 10-year journey of NGTS. Completed participants could redeem exclusive merchandise from SEAMEO RECFON and supporting partners.

At the NGTS Nutrition Education Booth, visitors experienced four interactive activities designed to turn nutrition knowledge into everyday action. Through Know Yourself, participants learned how nutritional status can be assessed using height, weight, and BMI-for-age. Myth or Fact challenged visitors to distinguish evidence-based nutrition information from common misconceptions, while Be a Nutrition Ambassador encouraged them to create short social media-style messages promoting healthier food choices. The experience concluded with a Commitment Wall, where visitors wrote down one healthy habit they planned to adopt.

The NGTS Healthy Canteen booth offered another practical experience by simulating a real school canteen. Visitors selected foods based on the principles of Beragam, Bergizi Seimbang, dan Aman (B2SA) and Isi Piringku, then received feedback on their food choices. Other activities introduced participants to reading nutrition information on packaged foods, basic food safety testing, and nutrition education resources through the NGTS Reading Corner.

Visitors could also explore SEAMEO RECFON’s broader work through a booth featuring its three flagship programmes: Early Childhood Care, Nutrition and Education (ECCNE), Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), and Nutrition Goes to Workplace (NGTW). Each programme was presented through interactive activities reflecting its focus across different stages of the life course—from early childhood and school years to the

A key highlight was the showcase of eight NGTS-supported schools and madrasahs from Indonesia. Each school presented innovations developed according to its own context, including school gardens, healthy canteens, entrepreneurship, nutritious food products, and other nutrition-related initiatives. Their work demonstrated that schools can become active agents of change by developing practical and sustainable approaches to healthier school environments.

The exhibition also brought together SEAMEO Sister Centres—including SEAMEO BIOTROP, SEAMEO SEAMOLEC, SEAMEO SEAQIL, SEAMEO SEAQIM, and SEAMEO SEAQIS—alongside supporting partners ILUNI FKUI, Landscape Alliance, and BBGTK Jawa Barat. Their participation reflected the importance of collaboration in creating healthy and supportive learning environments. For SEAMEO RECFON, the 10 Years NGTS Showcase was more than an exhibition. It demonstrated how nutrition education can move beyond information-sharing and become an engaging experience that encourages people to understand their nutritional status, make healthier choices, question nutrition myths, and build positive habits.

After a decade, NGTS continues to support schools in becoming active drivers of healthier behaviours and environments. From Indonesia to Southeast Asia, SEAMEO RECFON remains committed to strengthening school-based nutrition promotion and nurturing a generation that is Active, Well-nourished, Smart of Me, and truly AWESOME.

Shaping an “AWESOME” Generation: Celebrating a Decade of Nutrition Goes to School from Indonesia to Southeast Asia

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:13:40 +0000

Jakarta, 23 August 2026 – SEAMEO RECFON (Regional Centre for Food and Nutrition) marked the 10th anniversary of its flagship programme, Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), also known as Gizi untuk Prestasi, with a celebration held at Plaza Insan Berprestasi, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen), Jakarta. Carrying the theme “1 Decade NGTS: Shaping an AWESOME Generation (Active, Well-nourished, and Smart of Me) from Indonesia to Southeast Asia,” the hybrid event brought together schools, government institutions, partners, and stakeholders to reflect on a decade of school-based nutrition promotion and look ahead to the programme’s future across Southeast Asia.

Launched in 2016, NGTS has grown into a multisectoral initiative that promotes nutrition education and healthy lifestyles through the school environment. To date, the programme has trained more than 3,500 teachers and education personnel from over 2,400 schools, supported 279 schools and madrasahs across Indonesia and Southeast Asia, and encouraged schools to integrate balanced nutrition into their curriculum and daily culture. Its activities include nutrition education, healthy school canteens, school gardens, and nutrition entrepreneurship. Reflecting on the programme’s journey, Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp.A(K), Director of SEAMEO RECFON, emphasized that NGTS was founded on a simple principle: children need good health and adequate nutrition to learn, grow, and reach their potential.

“When the programme was developed in 2016, we started from a simple belief: children cannot learn optimally if their health and nutrition do not support them. Nutrition is not only for the present; it is an investment in the future.”

The anniversary celebration brought this vision to life through a series of educational and interactive activities. The programme opened with the “Healthy Mind, Healthy Eating, Self-Love: Seni Menutrisi Diri di Era Digital” talkshow, which explored the connection between mental well-being, eating habits, self-care, and the challenges young people face in the digital era. The discussion continued through the “Bekalku” practical session, where students Muhamad Athalla Arif Yusuf from SMP Muhammadiyah 36 Jakarta and Sena Yasifa Pratiwi from SMK Wikrama Bogor shared their experiences with school lunches and everyday eating habits.

The celebration also encouraged participants to put healthy living into action through a flashmob and Senam Anak Indonesia Hebat. A special angklung performance by students with special needs from SLB Negeri Cicendo, West Java, added an important message of inclusion, highlighting that building an AWESOME generation requires opportunities for every child to participate and contribute. Another key highlight was the “Sekolah/Madrasah Berbagi” Panel Discussion, which brought together school representatives from Indonesia, Laos, and Malaysia to share experiences and innovations in implementing school-based nutrition initiatives. The discussion demonstrated how NGTS can be adapted to different contexts, with schools developing practices ranging from school gardens and nutrition education to healthy canteens.

The “10 Years NGTS Showcase” further highlighted these achievements by featuring eight NGTS schools from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Laos. Through the showcase and interactive Stamp Rally, visitors explored how nutrition can become part of school culture and everyday learning. The anniversary also reinforced the importance of collaboration between nutrition and education. Representing Kemendikdasmen, Tatang Muttaqin, Ph.D., Director General of Secondary and Special Education, emphasized that nutritious food at school should go hand in hand with nutrition education and the development of sustainable healthy habits.

“Schools are not merely places where programmes are implemented. Schools themselves are agents of change.”

The regional dimension of NGTS was also highlighted through a message from John Arnold Sasi Siena, Deputy Director (Programme & Development), SEAMEO Secretariat. He recognized NGTS’s contribution to developing active, well-nourished, and smart students while strengthening collaboration among education ministries, schools, and partners across Southeast Asia. A symbolic ceremony marked another significant moment of the celebration, bringing together the four elements of the AWESOME vision—Active, Well-nourished, Smart of Me, and AWESOME. Involving representatives from government institutions, schools, and SEAMEO RECFON, the ceremony symbolized the collective commitment behind the programme and its next chapter.

After a decade, NGTS has grown beyond a nutrition education programme into a platform for creating healthier school environments and empowering schools as agents of change. Looking ahead, SEAMEO RECFON, together with its partners, is committed to strengthening and scaling up school-based nutrition promotion from Indonesia to the wider Southeast Asian region. The journey of NGTS continues—not only to celebrate ten years of progress, but to shape the next generation of children who are Active, Well-nourished, Smart of Me, and truly AWESOME.

SEAMEO RECFON Strengthens Educators’ Capacity in School-Age Child Nutrition through the Closing of the Online Nutrition Goes to School Training Program

Administrator NGTS — Thu, 14 May 2026 04:26:44 +0000

Jakarta, 7 Mei 2026

SEAMEO RECFON officially marked the closing of the Online Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) Training Program on 7 May 2026. As a regional center for food and nutrition research in Southeast Asia, SEAMEO RECFON organized this five-week training program to enhance the knowledge and skills of teachers, principals of schools and madrasahs, as well as other educational personnel from 125 districts/cities across 33 provinces in Indonesia in delivering nutrition and health education for school-age children and adolescents. The training also encouraged participants to develop school-based nutrition program Follow-Up Action Plans (RTL) as part of strengthening the School Health Unit Program (UKS/M) and the Healthy School Movement. A total of 550 participants registered for the training, with 494 participants remaining active until the closing day.

The session began with participant presentations of the Follow-Up Action Plans (RTL), developed as an outcome of the training in the form of nutrition programs for schools and madrasahs that are ready to be implemented to support the School Health Unit Program (UKS/M) and the Healthy School Movement. The presentations received feedback from SEAMEO RECFON nutrition expert, Dr. Luh Ade Ari Wiradnyani. “Identifying nutrition problems specifically in each school is an important foundation for driving meaningful and sustainable change. We need to identify more deeply what problems exist in the school, as this is the key to seeing real changes among students,” she stated.

Cross-sectoral synergy also strengthened this program. A representative from the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenag), Dr. Abdul Basit, S.Ag., M.M., delivered a presentation entitled Healthy Madrasah: Integrating Character Education, Nutrition, and Health into the Religious Curriculum. The presentation emphasized that strengthening students’ nutrition and health is an inseparable part of the madrasah curriculum and character development. “We must strengthen the concept of clean and healthy food within the madrasah environment. Nutrition and health are part of the implementation of deep learning,” he explained.

As one of the participants, Eka Mayasari from MIN 2 Bandar Lampung shared her experience during the program. “This program helped us understand that balanced nutrition is not only about eating enough, but also an investment in children’s future. Diverse and balanced eating habits can start from simple routines such as having breakfast,” she said.

The closing session concluded with remarks from the Acting Director of SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. dr. Herqutanto, MPH., MARS., Sp.KKLP., who expressed appreciation for the commitment and active participation of all participants throughout the training. “This training reflects our shared commitment to supporting the health and nutrition of school-aged children. We hope that the follow-up action plans that have been developed can be implemented consistently and create a sustainable impact on the school environment and students’ growth and development,” he concluded.

Through the Nutrition Goes to School Program, SEAMEO RECFON together with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemendikdasmen) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenag) continues to strengthen the capacity of educators as key drivers in nurturing a healthier, smarter, and more competitive young generation in Indonesia.

SEAMEO RECFON Open Dialogue with Academic Partners and Schools to Formulate the Direction of the NGTS Program for the Next Five Years

Administrator NGTS — Tue, 05 May 2026 07:33:51 +0000

Jakarta, 16-17 April 2026

SEAMEO RECFON organized an open dialogue with academic partners as well as partner schools and madrasahs as part of the roadmap development process for the Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) Program for the next five years. The activity was conducted online through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in two sessions, held on 16 April 2026 with academic partners and on 17 April 2026 with school representatives. The dialogue aimed to review the program’s collective achievements while gathering strategic input from partners to further refine the future direction of NGTS. This approach aligns with the 4th Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP) 2026–2030, which emphasizes strengthening evidence-based programs and responsiveness to field needs.

During the academic partners session, five supporting institutions from various NGTS Program locations actively participated in the discussion, including Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA, Poltekkes Kemenkes Tasikmalaya, Poltekkes Kemenkes Malang, Poltekkes Kemenkes Pontianak, and Universitas Ahmad Dahlan. The discussion highlighted several key aspects of NGTS Program implementation that require further strengthening.

Strengthening the legal framework emerged as a key priority to support more optimal program implementation. In addition, clearly defined end goals were considered crucial to ensure a more measurable direction, particularly if NGTS is to be scaled up more broadly. In this regard, systematic and well-documented evidence of program achievements is essential to support an evidence-based approach.

From an implementation perspective, simplifying the monitoring and evaluation system, including the development of more effective and user-friendly reporting mechanisms, was also highlighted as a key concern. Academic partners further emphasized the importance of fostering the independence of schools and madrasahs as implementers, so that NGTS is not merely carried out as an intervention but becomes sustainably integrated into school and madrasah practices and systems.

In the session with partner schools and madrasahs, eight representatives from various regions, including SDN Cipageran Mandiri 1 Cimahi, SDN Sidamulya Kota Cirebon, SMPN 7 Kota Cirebon, SMPN 8 Sambas, SMP Muhammadiyah 36 Jakarta, SMK Geo Informatika Bogor, MA Basiuni Imran Sambas, and MAN 9 Jakarta, shared their direct experiences in implementing the program. The discussion showed that NGTS has encouraged positive behavioral changes within school environments, particularly in increasing nutrition awareness, promoting the habit of bringing healthy meals, and reducing the consumption of packaged foods and beverages.

Several schools have also demonstrated initiatives to strengthen the program through contextual activities, such as “Nutritious Lunch Thursday,” which has evolved into a collective habit and supports the development of a healthier school environment.

This series of dialogues generated targeted inputs as a foundation for developing the NGTS roadmap. SEAMEO RECFON will follow up on all inputs to ensure a more measurable, adaptive, and sustainable direction for program development.

Through this forum, SEAMEO RECFON reaffirmed its commitment to continuously strengthening collaboration with academic partners and educational institutions as part of a collective effort to sustainably improve the nutrition and health of students.

SEAMEO RECFON Develops 2026–2030 Flagship Program Roadmap to Strengthen Food and Nutrition Impact in Southeast Asia

Administrator NGTS — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:34:14 +0000

Depok, 20-22 April 2026

SEAMEO RECFON organized a Flagship Program Roadmap Development Workshop on 20–22 April 2026 at The Margo Hotel, Depok, West Java. The workshop marked a strategic step in shaping the future direction of SEAMEO RECFON’s flagship programs, namely Early Childhood Care Nutrition and Education (ECCNE), Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), and Nutrition Goes to Workplace (NGTW), in alignment with the 4th Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP) 2026–2030. These three programs are designed using a life-course approach that targets beneficiaries from early childhood, school-aged children, to the productive-age population. The workshop was attended by the Board of Directors (BoD), SEAMEO RECFON staff, flagship program coordinators, and Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp.A(K) from the Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.

Opening the workshop, the Acting Director of SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. dr. Herqutanto, MPH., MARS., Sp.KKLP., emphasized the importance of developing a roadmap as a strategic foundation for the next five years. “This workshop marks an important moment for us to collectively formulate a more structured and integrated direction for the development of our flagship programs. The roadmap we develop should be able to address nutrition and public health challenges, not only in Indonesia but also across the Southeast Asian region,” stated Dr. Herqutanto.

Over the three-day workshop, each program team presented their achievements, challenges, and proposed development priorities for the next five years. The discussions focused on expanding evidence-based program impact, strengthening sustainability, and enhancing cross-sector partnerships at both national and regional levels.

The Deputy Director for Program of SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. dr. Brian Sri Prahastuti, M.P.H., emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration across divisions in achieving shared goals. “The activities carried out by each division serve as a reminder that we remain committed to achieving our intended objectives,” stated Dr. Brian. She further noted that the outcomes formulated during the workshop reflect a strong foundation for the future development of flagship programs, while also providing momentum to strengthen measurable indicators, adaptive strategies, and increasingly solid collaboration toward 2030.

The workshop also mapped the strategic contributions of each division to ensure that program implementation is aligned from upstream to downstream processes. These contributions include the development of program innovations and supporting services, the establishment of standardized training systems and capacity building for human resources, the empowerment of communities and institutions to implement programs independently, the strengthening of evidence-based research and policy recommendations, as well as the expansion of branding and strategic partnerships through various communication channels. This cross-divisional synergy is expected to serve as a key foundation in ensuring the successful implementation of SEAMEO RECFON’s three flagship programs.

At the end of the workshop, participants agreed on a set of strategic priorities and key performance indicators that will serve as references for annual implementation through 2030. The roadmap is expected to function as a guiding framework for mobilizing resources, expertise, and collaboration to generate tangible impacts in the fields of nutrition, health, and human resource development. Through this workshop, SEAMEO RECFON reaffirmed its commitment to continuously empower communities and institutions through sustainable food and nutrition solutions, with the aim of improving the quality of life of communities in Indonesia and across the Southeast Asian region.

Online Training on Nutrition and Health for School-age Children and Adolescents for Teachers and School/Madrasah in Indonesia through the Implementation of the Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) Program

Administrator NGTS — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 07:56:37 +0000

Jakarta, 1 April 2026

SEAMEO RECFON, in collaboration with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, conducted the Online Training on Nutrition and Health for School-age Children and Adolescents 2026. On April 1, 2026, the program officially commenced with the opening ceremony and the first synchronous virtual learning session, attended by participants from various regions across Indonesia via Zoom and the Learning Management System (LMS). This training is part of efforts to expand access to capacity building for educators in supporting the implementation of balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyle behaviors within educational institutions.

The training was attended by 528 teachers and school principals from 33 provinces across Indonesia, with the aim of strengthening educators’ capacity to deliver nutrition and health education to students within their respective educational institutions. In addition, the training encourages participants to develop implementable and contextual Action Plans (Rencana Tindak Lanjut/RTL) based on the needs of their schools.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Herqutanto, MPH., MARS., Acting Director of SEAMEO RECFON, emphasized the importance of strengthening educators’ capacity to support the health of future generations. He stated, “This training has been conducted for the 11th time, and to date has produced approximately 5,500 alumni who contribute to strengthening human resource capacity toward Indonesia Emas 2045.” He also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing challenges such as anemia, stunting, and obesity. “Teachers play a vital role as agents of change in promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors, and we encourage concrete Action Plans (RTL) in schools,” he added.

Aligned with efforts to strengthen the role of educational institutions in creating environments that support student health, Dr. Poppy Dewi Puspitawati, Senior Widyaprada from the Directorate of Junior Secondary Schools, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen), stated in her keynote speech that “The transformation of schools into healthy environments should not only be reflected through classroom learning, but also through daily habits, shared mealtime experiences, and the strengthening of co-curricular and extracurricular activities. Nutrition education and Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) must be fully integrated into the school ecosystem to foster sustainable healthy behaviors,” she said. She further added that “healthy adolescents will grow into healthy adults, therefore we need to continuously support children in maintaining their health.”

The training activities began with a learning commitment strengthening session led by Sari Kusuma, M.Gizi from SEAMEO RECFON, which introduced the learning flow and emphasized the importance of active participant engagement throughout the training process.

This was followed by Dr. Zainun Misbah, M.Sc from SEAMEO RECFON, who delivered a learning session titled “The Role of Educators as Role Models in the Successful Implementation of Nutrition and Health Programs in Schools/Madrasahs.” In his presentation, Dr. Zainun emphasized that the successful implementation of nutrition and health programs in educational institutions is strongly influenced by educators’ consistency in demonstrating behaviors that support healthy lifestyles for students.

At the end of the opening session, Dr. Luh Ade Ari Wiradnyani, Coordinator of the Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) Program delivered a learning session titled “Nutrition and Health of School-age Children and Adolescents.” In her presentation, she highlighted several ongoing nutrition challenges, including anemia, stunting, and the increasing risk of overweight and obesity among adolescents. Responding to these conditions, she emphasized that prevention efforts must begin at school age, stating, “Ensuring balanced nutrition from school age is an important investment to support the health and productivity of future generations.”

As the training series continues through May 2026, this program is expected to further strengthen educators’ capacity to integrate nutrition and health education into learning activities and to create school environments that support healthy lifestyle behaviors. Through the development of concrete Action Plans, SEAMEO RECFON and its partners reaffirm their commitment to improving students’ health as a long-term investment toward achieving a healthier and more productive generation.