The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education said the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) has been successfully rolled out to schools across the province.
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As the second school term commenced on Wednesday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education said the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) has been successfully rolled out to schools, with thousands of learners receiving meals from the first day of the academic term.
In a statement, MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka said the department was encouraged by the return of learners, educators, and support staff, describing a “renewed sense of purpose and commitment to learning” across schools in the province.
The programme roll-out comes after some school nutrition providers had sought to interdict the process. This was due to concerns they raised about the tender process for the new contract for the programme. They alleged that there were irregularities in the process but the department has denied this.
Their interdict matter was dismissed in the Pietermaritzburg High Court late last month.
Hlomuka said the nutrition programme remains central to learner wellbeing, and academic performance.
“We are particularly pleased with the successful rollout of the School Nutrition Programme, which continues to play a vital role in supporting learner wellbeing and academic performance,” he said.
“From the first day of the term, thousands of learners have been provided with nutritious meals, ensuring that no child is expected to learn on an empty stomach.”
The MEC said the programme reflects the department’s “unwavering commitment to safeguarding the dignity, health, and educational outcomes of every learner in KwaZulu-Natal”.
He also welcomed newly appointed service providers tasked with delivering meals under the programme, emphasising their role in ensuring consistency and quality.
“By ensuring the consistent provision of safe, nutritious, and quality meals, you are directly contributing to improved concentration, attendance, and overall academic performance in our schools,” Hlomuka said.
The department said it aims to build “a strong, transparent, and accountable partnership” with service providers, urging them to comply with national guidelines and uphold standards of “integrity, reliability, and efficiency”.
Hlomuka further commended school management teams, educators, food handlers, and other stakeholders for ensuring the smooth implementation of the programme at the start of the term.
“Their dedication has ensured that teaching and learning can proceed in a conducive and supportive environment,” he said.
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