The Punjab government has initiated Pakistan’s largest school nutrition programme, targeting child malnutrition through a pilot project in Dera Ghazi Khan. Inaugurated by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the programme aims to provide nutrition-rich milk packs to primary school children in the region.
The initiative is set to benefit over 400,000 students across three districts—Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Muzaffargarh—where malnutrition rates among children are alarmingly high. Each student will receive a 175ml milk pack daily, with an innovative recycling program to generate additional funds for the schools through the collection of empty packs.
During the launch event, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reiterated the government’s commitment to elevating the education sector. She emphasized the administration’s focus on implementing crucial reforms to improve both the curriculum and the overall quality of education. The Chief Minister also underscored the importance of upgrading sports facilities in schools to promote holistic student development.
Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, who leads the Ministry of Education, has been entrusted with overseeing the programme for the next five years, ensuring the continuous provision of free milk to children.
Maryam Nawaz personally distributed milk packs during her visit to a government primary school in Dera Ghazi Khan, engaging with students about their health and education. She assured the public of her dedication to improving their standard of living and securing a brighter future for the next generation. Additionally, she called upon other provincial leaders to adopt similar initiatives in their regions.
