By REGINALD KANYANE
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District obtained a Gold Pot Award in the category of the best performing district in the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP). Are Itshokeng Primary School from Dr Kenneth Kaunda District won a Silver Pot in the category of best Performing School in NSNP during the NSNP Awards ceremony held at Phuthaditjhaba Community Hall in the Free State province on 11 June 2024.
The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said the best district received an office equipment, printer, laptop projector and screen. Molokwane said Are Itshokeng received utensils worth R33 000.
“The inception of the awards was in 2009 to ensure that benefitting schools uphold best nutritious practices and those that go far and beyond the call of duty are rewarded.
“The awards also highlighted the World School Milk Day Competition, which also talks about the importance of good nutrition in School, congratulations to all the winners,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Basic Education said: “The NSNP aims to enhance the learning capacity of learners through the provision of a healthy meal at schools. Where it is implemented, the programme has shown to improve punctuality, regular school attendance, concentration and the general wellbeing of participating learners.
“Whilst learners are being provided with nutritious meals, they are also taught to establish and maintain good eating and lifestyle habits for life. Nutrition Education also provides educators with resource materials to support curriculum and to make every school a healthy school.”
The department said schools are also encouraged to establish food gardens from which they obtain fresh produce (vegetables/fruit) to supplement the menu in line with South African Food Based Dietary Guidelines. Learners, teachers & parents are provided with skills to grow their own food contributing towards long-term household food security. It said the gardens are also used as a teaching and learning resource and to beautify the environment.
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