Photo: SUN Movement
For nearly a century, Sri Lanka’s National School Meals Programme has been a lifeline for children, improving nutrition, boosting school attendance, and strengthening communities. Today, with 1.38 million children receiving meals across 8,956 schools, the programme is a shining example of how government, civil society, businesses, and international partners can come together to fight malnutrition.
With $70 million in government funding, support from the SUN Movement members, and a strong multisectoral approach, the programme creates local jobs, empowers farmers, and ensures children receive nutritious, culturally appropriate meals. In places like Gannoruwa, the homegrown school feeding model has transformed education—raising school attendance from 40% to 98%.
By fostering collaboration, strengthening governance, and mobilizing resources, Sri Lanka is proving that sustainable school meal programmes can change lives and drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
Read the full story to learn more about this impactful initiative.