The occasion was attended officials from the General Education and instruction ministry and representatives of the World Food Programme (WFP), among others.
Organizers randomly chose Maluil Akong Primary school to demonstrate how the program would benefit pupils since feeding is one of the prerequisites for learners.
Speaking during the event, the General Education minister, Awut Deng Achuil thanked WFP and other partners for supporting the school-feeding programme.
She said such partnerships are essential in efforts to achieve quality education.
“One of the ways to deliver effectively is to have a feeding in schools for little children who would sneak out of classes if a stomach is empty and if there is little food availed to them then it is more helpful”, stated Achuil.
The governor of the state, Tong Aken Ngor urged partners to provide support in areas where proper infrastructure is either lacking or in a dilapidated situation.
“I appeal to donors, WFP, UNICEF, and FAO to increase the funding concerning feeding programme to cover more schools. Some schools can’t be accessible during rainy season due to poor roads and it is imperative if the funding is enhanced to ensure that such schools are enrolled in the services”, he said.
The governor appealed to the national Ministry of General Education to be mindful of the conditions of refugees and returnees’ children, citing their influx.
“The current raging conflict in Sudan has made us witness huge number of returnees and refugees in this state and their children are enrolled in schools now. I would to bring to your attention that you mobilize more resources to respond to their school needs as the crisis is negatively impactful”, he stressed.
It was a joyous moment as pupils dined with the dignitaries during the occasion.
Donors and development partners pledged to support the school feeding program.
