Strengthening School-Based Food and Nutrition Education in Ghana: Gaps, Opportunities, and a Roadmap for Action.

چکیده اصلی

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition among school-age children and adolescents in Ghana is driven by poor diet quality and weakly regulated school food environments (SFEs). School-based Food and Nutrition Education (SFNE) is a key strategy, but its effectiveness depends on coordinated capacity across sectors. This study assessed the enabling factors, and priority actions for institutionalising SFNE. METHODS: The FAO SFNE capacity needs assessment tool was used, with a multi-phase qualitative study design. Document review and stakeholder mapping were conducted, followed by a two-day consultative workshop. Capacities were assessed across system levels and prioritised through ranking. RESULTS: Ghana has supportive SNFE policies; however, implementation is fragmented, lacks unified legal framework, and constrained by inadequate data. Integration into curricula, teacher training, and SFEs is weak, with reliance on short-term funding. Priority actions included strengthening coordination, developing standards; improving data systems, aligning curricula, enhancing SFEs, and sustainable financing. IMPLICATION FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY: Institutionalising SFNE will ensure learners receive high-quality equitable nutrition education and access to supportive school food environment. CONCLUSION: Ghana is well-positioned to institutionalise SFNE and may serve as a model for low- and middle-income countries.

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