Boven Digoel – The implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program in Boven Digoel Regency has been ensured not to interfere with teaching and learning activities in schools. The program has been carefully scheduled and is the result of an agreement between schools and the National Nutrition Agency.
This was conveyed by Sudarto, School Supervisor at the Boven Digoel Regency Education and Culture Office. He emphasized that the implementation of MBG is not carried out arbitrarily, but has been arranged to align with the academic schedule.
“The implementation of MBG has been well scheduled and does not overlap with core learning hours. This is the result of coordination between schools and the National Nutrition Agency to ensure the program runs smoothly without disrupting students’ learning process,” said Sudarto, Monday (September 29, 2025).
Regarding reports of food poisoning cases from MBG in several other regions in Indonesia, Sudarto considered this an important evaluation point. He stressed that vigilance must be heightened to prevent similar incidents from occurring in Boven Digoel.
“Cases in other regions should serve as lessons. We ensure that the meals provided to students have undergone strict inspection and supervision,” he stated.
Sudarto further explained that the main objective of MBG is to support students’ health while creating a more comfortable learning environment. At this initial stage, the program has only been implemented in three pilot schools, namely SD IT Baiturahmah, SD Inpres Tanah Merah, and SMP Negeri 1 Tanah Merah.
The Education Office hopes this program will continue to run safely, consistently, and effectively, bringing tangible benefits to the improvement of education quality and student welfare in Boven Digoel Regency.
