The Ministry of Education and Sports of Laos has formalized an agreement with Germany to support the country's school meals program. In collaboration with the UN World Food Programme (WFP), this initiative aims to enhance food security and education by linking local farmers with schools to provide fresh ingredients.

School meal programs currently operate in about 25% of primary schools, benefiting nearly 250,000 children. However, many areas still need external support. Vice Minister of Education and Sports Soulioudong Soundara emphasized the critical role of school meals in improving enrolment, attendance, and learning outcomes.

The support from Germany will create a sustainable supply chain, benefiting children's nutrition and education while providing economic opportunities for farmers. The project also promotes gender equality, climate-smart farming practices, and energy-efficient cooking solutions.

German Ambassador Annette Knobloch highlighted the project's alignment with Germany’s feminist development policy and its focus on climate-smart food production. WFP Country Director Jacqueline de Groot noted that the initiative aims to transform food systems and strengthen human capital in Laos.