Free Meal Program
Along with the education of children, nutrition is now also being taken care of in government schools in Karachi. Allama Iqbal Government School, located at the junction of Sohrab Goth and Federal B Area, continues to provide free meal program to students daily, due to which a significant increase in the school attendance of children has been seen. Delicious dishes like chicken rolls, biryani, nihari, kabab, and dal chawal (Rice) are not only beneficial for the health of children but also spread happiness and satisfaction on their faces.
Ever since this school was handed over to MQM Member of Provincial Assembly Adil Askari, free meals have been provided to children here along with education. During the academic break, students enjoy their meals by standing in queues or sitting at tables. This initiative is not only saving children from malnutrition but is also giving them a new incentive to come to school every day.
Read: KP Introduces Free OPD Services with Sehat Card for Poor Patients
The Sindh government has announced to provide of mid-day meals or lunch boxes in some specific schools in the academic session 2024, but this dream has already become a reality in Allama Iqbal Government School. Parents are also happy with this change because their children are not only getting quality education but also better food. Such initiatives can prove to be the beginning of a positive change in the education system of Pakistan.
If this model is adopted in other government schools, then definitely the attendance of students will increase further and the quality of education will improve. Parents will have fewer worries about their children’s education and children from poor families will also be able to get regular education. Can this step become an ideal model for all government schools in Pakistan? Be sure to express your opinion! Free Meal Program.
Impact of Free Food on Student Attendance
According to the school principal, since the Sindh government handed over the school to MQM MPA Adil Askari, students have been receiving free food during the morning break. This initiative has led to a noticeable increase in student attendance, as many children from underprivileged backgrounds now attend regularly. Several families struggling with poverty have started enrolling their children in the school to ensure they receive both education and proper nutrition.
Read: Punjab to Replace Ramazan Nigehban Relief Program with Rs 10,000 Assistance for Beneficiaries
Diverse Food Menu for Students
The food provided to students varies daily, offering a nutritious and diverse menu. The menu includes:
- Chicken rolls
- Biryani
- Nihari
- Kebabs
- Dal Chawal
Sometimes, the food is served on tables, while other times, students queue up for distribution. This structured approach ensures every child receives their meal in an organized manner.
Government’s Future Plans for Midday Meals
The free food distribution initiative aligns with Sindh Education Minister Sardar Shah’s recent announcement of launching midday meals or lunch boxes in selected schools from April 2025. This highlights the government’s commitment to improving student nutrition and attendance in public schools across the province.
Read: Punjab CM Laptop Scheme 2025: Eligibility Criteria, Policy, and Distribution Details
Students’ Positive Response
Students have expressed happiness and excitement over the free food distribution. One student shared how she tells her family daily about the food she receives, while another mentioned that this initiative motivates her to attend school regularly and complete her education.
Conclusion
The Free Meal Program at Allama Iqbal Government School is proving to be a game-changer for education in Karachi. By addressing malnutrition and poverty, this initiative is ensuring that more students stay in school, creating a brighter future for the next generation. If successful, this model can be expanded to more schools, providing quality education and nutrition to children across Sindh.