Child Fund is actively committed to strengthening school nutrition, considered a key factor in educational success. Through this initiative, the non-governmental organization supports the Ministry of National Education in its new approach aimed at making school canteens functional, relying on local resources and strong community involvement.

According to Mamadou Mbaye, Director of Programs and Sponsorships at Child Fund, "school meals are a valuable input in the education system." It is within this framework that the NGO, with its partner Fel Yook, is supporting at least four schools during the pilot phase.

Two canteens will be launched in Mbour and two others in Kolda, in order to contribute to improving students' learning conditions. The first canteen is located at the Soussoung elementary school, in the municipality of Ndiaganiao.

The initiative is based on a participatory approach that brings together all stakeholders involved in school canteens. Local communities, regional authorities, school management committees (SMCs), and technical partners are all called upon to play a key role. The objective is to mobilize community resources to ensure the sustainable operation of the canteens.

School canteens not only help keep children in school, but also improve their academic performance by providing them with balanced meals that promote concentration and attendance, explained Mr. Mbaye.

Child Fund is thus reaching out to various partners, particularly local authorities. The mayor's presence at the event demonstrates the commitment of local authorities, who have already pledged concrete contributions to support the project. For its part, the CGE has identified local stakeholders willing to provide donations and material support.

However, Mamadou Mbaye emphasizes that the success of this initiative depends on sound and transparent management, which is a guarantee of trust and motivation for all contributors, for the benefit of the well-being and academic success of students.

For Dr. Tenning Sène, mayor of Ndiaganiao, the school canteen "allows students to go to school in better conditions and to be more focused in class. Children need a safe and supportive learning environment," she says.

She also expressed her gratitude to Child Fund and reaffirmed the city council's commitment to supporting the construction and operation of school canteens.

Through this initiative, Child Fund and its partners intend to make school canteens a real lever for educational and social development within communities.