The Government of Sindh has introduced a groundbreaking Free Meal Program for students in government schools across underprivileged areas of the province. This initiative aims to improve nutrition, boost school attendance, and enhance learning outcomes for thousands of children. Here’s everything you need to know:
Key Highlights of the Sindh Free Meal Program
✅ Daily nutritious meals for government school students
✅ Focus on remote & underprivileged areas of Sindh
✅ No documentation required – all students in selected schools benefit
✅ Implemented in partnership with reputed NGOs
✅ Current coverage: 50,000+ students (expanding to 100,000 by 2025)
Program Objectives & Benefits
1. Fighting Malnutrition
- Provides balanced meals including:
- Rice, lentils, vegetables, roti
- Occasional protein sources (eggs, chicken)
- Addresses stunting (45% in Sindh) and anemia
2. Improving Education Outcomes
- Increases enrollment (22.8M out-of-school children in Pakistan)
- Reduces absenteeism (especially among girls)
- Boosts concentration and academic performance
3. Economic & Social Impact
- Saves families Rs. 1,000-2,000/month per child
- Creates local jobs (cooks, suppliers)
- Promotes gender equality in education
Eligibility & Implementation
Who Qualifies?
- All students in selected government schools
- Focus on primary & secondary levels (ages 5-16)
- Priority districts:
🟢 Tharparkar
🟢 Umerkot
🟢 Badin
🟢 Sanghar
🟢 Other rural, high-poverty areas
How It Works
1️⃣ School Selection
- Based on poverty levels & malnutrition data
2️⃣ Meal Preparation - NGO-managed with strict hygiene standards
3️⃣ Daily Distribution - 12 PM-2 PM during school days
- Served in classrooms/dedicated spaces
Future Expansion Plans (2025 Targets)
📌 Cover 100,000 students in 10-15 districts
📌 Add milk & fruits to meals
📌 Build 500 school kitchens
📌 Introduce parent awareness campaigns
Quick Facts Table
| Aspect | Details |
| Daily Meal Cost | Rs. 50-75 per student |
| Meal Timing | 12 PM-2 PM (school days) |
| Key Nutrients | Carbs, proteins, vitamins |
| Current Coverage | 50,000+ students |
| 2025 Target | 100,000 students |
| Contact | Sindh Education Dept: 021-99204444 |
Why This Matters?
“This program addresses two critical issues – education and nutrition – with one solution,” says Education Minister Sardar Shah. Early results show:
- 27% increase in attendance
- 15% improvement in test scores
- 40% more girls enrolling
The initiative is part of Sindh’s larger education reforms, including:
- Free textbooks
- Teacher training
- School infrastructure upgrades
How to Check if Your School is Included?
- Contact your school administration
- Call Sindh Education Helpline: 021-99204444
- Visit nearest District Education Office
Note: The program is automatically available in selected schools – no application needed!
This pioneering nutrition program sets an example for other provinces to follow, combining education support with health intervention for maximum impact. With planned expansions, it promises to transform the lives of Sindh’s most vulnerable children.
📢 Spread the word! Many families remain unaware of this valuable initiative.