The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program has been proven to have a positive impact on children’s concentration levels, leading to improved learning motivation. Research conducted in Aceh and supported by the Expert Council Member of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) revealed that students who received Free Nutritious Meals showed increased concentration, which is crucial for better educational outcomes and sustained learning motivation. Another study by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) also showed similar results, with students in Bogor and Papua benefiting from improved learning focus and cognitive performance, especially among those who did not have breakfast before. Additionally, a case study at State Vocational School 6 (SMK Negeri 6) in Medan demonstrated that the MBG program significantly enhanced attendance motivation and classroom concentration. Concentration, as explained by the expert, is closely related to attention and is essential for brain development during a child’s formative years. Factors such as learning motivation, nutritional intake, psychological well-being, and physiological conditions like sleep quality and environment design can influence a child’s ability to concentrate. The expert emphasized the importance of key nutrients such as protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and cognitive function, particularly memory. The MBG Program aims to address children’s nutritional needs to enhance cognitive potential and intelligence, although challenges such as unhealthy consumption behavior among children and limited access to nutritious foods in certain regions still exist. It is crucial to strengthen support for the successful implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals Program to ensure lasting benefits for future generations and society as a whole.
Nutritious MBG Meals Boost Children’s Focus
