Question NW1326 to the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
08 July 2020 - NW1326
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) Whether the National School Nutrition Programme has been available for all qualifying learners since schools re-opened on 8 June 2020; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) what is the involvement of her department in the National Food and Nutrition Security Co-ordinating Committee?
Reply:
(1) Since 08 June 2020, the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) was availed to Grade 7 and 12 learners, in order to adhere to the necessary social distancing, health and safety protocols. Since 22 June 2020, provinces have extended the programme to all qualifying learners, including those not yet back at school.
(2) The Department of Basic Education is a key stakeholder in the country’s food and nutrition efforts. Three (3) officials represent the Department in the National Food and Nutrition Security Coordinating Committee. The Department’s participation has been consistent, dating back to 2015, when Cabinet directed that government departments must devise a unified approach to food and nutrition challenges. This led to the development of the National Food and Nutrition Security Plan by a task team, inclusive of DBE officials.