Lebanon highlighted the remarkable growth and impact of its national school meals programme at the Second School Meals Coalition Global Summit, held under the high patronage of the President of Brazil on 18–19 September 2025. The two-day gathering brought together leaders from member states, UN agencies, financial institutions, NGOs, philanthropies, and research organizations to assess global progress since the first summit in Paris in 2023 and drive new commitments for expanding school meal initiatives worldwide.
Launched in 2016 with support from the World Food Programme (WFP), Lebanon’s school meals programme has grown tenfold—expanding from 10,000 students in 22 schools to over 107,000 children in 323 public schools. During last year’s conflict, when classrooms were temporarily closed, WFP adapted by reactivating school kitchens to assist affected communities. With the return to in-person learning, the programme has resumed full operations, reaffirming its role as a crucial safety net for vulnerable children and families.
“School meals in Lebanon are implemented under the national School Health Program, ensuring that every child enjoys the right to quality education in a healthy and supportive environment,” said Dr. Rima Karami, Minister of Education and Higher Education (MEHE). She emphasized that the initiative supports children’s overall development—enhancing physical health, mental well-being, and academic performance—while strengthening community resilience despite ongoing economic and social challenges.
A defining feature of Lebanon’s programme is its locally driven model. Twelve WFP-operated school kitchens, managed by 201 women caregivers, prepare daily meals for nearly 24,000 children, sourcing 92 percent of ingredients locally from WFP-supported retailers and small businesses. This approach not only improves nutrition and learning outcomes but also supports families, creates jobs, and strengthens local food systems. Every US$1 invested generates up to US$20 in economic and social returns.
“School meals are a pillar of Lebanon’s food security strategy, ensuring children receive nutritious meals while supporting farmers, caregivers, and small businesses,” said Matthew Hollingworth, WFP Lebanon Representative and Country Director. “The Ministry of Education’s leadership has been vital to transforming this programme into a true national effort.”
Looking ahead, the Ministry and WFP plan to expand the initiative to reach more public-school students and secure its long-term sustainability. Lebanon joined the Global School Meals Coalition in 2023, reinforcing its commitment to a nationally led, sustainable school feeding programme.
According to the State of School Feeding Worldwide 2025 report released on 10 September, school meals have become the world’s largest social safety net, benefiting 466 million children globally by improving education outcomes, promoting healthier diets, creating jobs, and boosting local food systems. Lebanon’s experience stands as a powerful example of how school meals can transform children’s lives while strengthening communities and national resilience.
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