The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have signed a US$9.5 million agreement to improve school nutrition and strengthen local food systems in Bhutan. The initiative aims to provide nutritious school meals to more than 100,000 children while also supporting rural livelihoods through increased local food production. In total, the programme is expected to benefit over 175,000 people across the country.
The partnership is being implemented in collaboration with Bhutan’s Ministry of Education and Skills Development, the Central Monastic Body, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. It will support both government and monastic schools, focusing on improving school feeding systems by sourcing food locally and enhancing the nutritional quality of meals provided to students.
A key component of the initiative is infrastructure and capacity building. School kitchens in multiple districts will be constructed or upgraded, while students will receive not only improved meals but also education on balanced diets, hygiene, food safety, and basic food production knowledge. This integrated approach aims to strengthen both nutrition outcomes and awareness among children.
The programme also focuses on rural development by supporting more than 2,000 farming households with tools, training, and skills to improve agricultural productivity and develop agribusiness opportunities. At least 60 percent of beneficiaries will be women, helping to enhance gender-inclusive economic opportunities and strengthen links between farmers and school feeding programmes.
Officials from KOICA and WFP highlighted that the initiative goes beyond feeding children, describing it as a model for linking nutrition, education, and local agriculture. By sourcing food locally and investing in farmers, the programme aims to build more resilient communities while improving long-term food security.
The initiative also addresses concerns about micronutrient deficiencies among school-age children in Bhutan. It seeks to improve dietary diversity and ensure access to healthier, nutrient-rich meals in schools, contributing to better learning outcomes and child development.
