Shillong: The North East Society for Agroecology Support (NESFAS) recently showcased its innovative school meal program at Rome Nutrition Week. Held at the Food and Agriculture Organization headquarters from May 25 to 28, the event featured Executive Director Pius Ranee and Founding Chairperson Phrang Roy, who presented their work at the invitation of the International Fund for Agricultural Development.
This initiative stems from research conducted by NESFAS alongside McGill University and the National Institute of Nutrition. Their findings identified a significant nutritional crisis in the region, noting that 31 percent of students suffered from undernourishment and 57 percent were underweight, despite the local abundance of biodiversity.
To combat these health challenges, the organization began incorporating wild edibles and locally grown produce into school lunches. Since the pilot project launched in 2022 across 11 schools, the program has grown to cover 26 schools and support over 2,000 children. Pius Ranee emphasized that the success relies on a partnership between teachers, local farmers, and parents who contribute fresh produce from their own gardens.
The integration of wild leafy greens has emerged as a promising strategy for tackling conditions like anaemia. Moving forward, NESFAS plans to expand this model throughout the state by strengthening ties with government agencies and community leaders. Canada’s Ambassador to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Agencies, Elissa A. Golberg, chaired the session.
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