Cambodia, KOICA and WFP launch initiative to boost national homegrown school feeding programme

The programme currently reaches 190,000 children across 686 schools. The renewed support from South Korea builds on the achievements of Phase I (2020—2024) and will enable MoEYS and WFP to provide hot, nutritious meals to 133,300 schoolchildren across 428 schools. These schools will be progressively integrated into the national programme with full government ownership and management expected by 2028. 

“The Ministry is deeply grateful for the continued support from the Government of the Republic of Korea, KOICA, and WFP,” said H.E. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport. “Through this programme, we are not only improving access to nutritious food but also investing in Cambodia’s future by building a stronger, more resilient education system that supports our national development goals.” 

The Royal Government of Cambodia has shown strong leadership and commitment to school meals. In August 2024, it approved the School Feeding Policy, a landmark step that formalized the programme’s role in contributing to education, nutrition, agriculture and social protection. This approach aligns closely with Cambodia’s broader human capital development agenda and the priorities of the Pentagonal Strategy—building a healthier, more educated, and resilient generation.

“We are honoured to continue this important collaboration with the Royal Government of Cambodia and WFP,” said Moon Jung Choi, Country Director of KOICA Cambodia Office. “This second phase of support reaffirms the Government of Republic Korea’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development for the Cambodian people by supporting national systems that deliver lasting improvements in education, nutrition and rural livelihoods.”

The national school feeding programme adopts a home-grown approach, linking education and nutrition with local agriculture by sourcing food from smallholder farmers. In a country where over half of the population relies on agriculture, this approach stimulates local economies, strengthens food systems and serves as a safety net for vulnerable families affected by recurrent shocks.

“WFP is proud to continue supporting Cambodia’s journey towards a nationally owned, sustainable school feeding programme,” said Claire Conan, WFP Representative in Cambodia. “The renewed partnership with KOICA and MoEYS is a powerful example of how partnership can improve children's well-being, enhance learning, and build more resilient communities.”

In addition to meal provision, the programme focuses on capacity strengthening, infrastructure upgrades and institutional development at national, sub-national, and school levels. These efforts are designed to enable MoEYS to take ownership, while ensuring the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of the programme. 

#                                  #                                  #

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies, building prosperity and supporting a sustainable future for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.