University Project Tackles Student Malnutrition
CPU’s Project ETC delivers vital feeding supplies to Iloilo schools.
Central Philippine University (CPU) is actively combatting student undernutrition in Iloilo Province. Through its Project ETC initiative, CPU delivered a month’s worth of feeding supplies, ensuring students receive the nourishment they need to thrive.
ETC Project Overview
Project ETC (Education, Technology, and Community), CPU’s flagship outreach program, focuses on uplifting local communities through education and support. The recent initiative demonstrates the university’s commitment to the well-being of students in adopted schools.
Recipient Schools
The feeding program benefits three schools: Iloilo River Plains Integrated School in Lanit, Jaro, Iloilo City; Badiang Elementary School in New Lucena, Iloilo; and Tapikan Elementary School in San Joaquin, Iloilo. These schools were chosen based on demonstrated need and commitment to student welfare.
Nutritional Support Details
The delivered food supplies are designed to last one month for all enrolled students. Consisting primarily of carbohydrate-rich foods, the supplies aim to combat undernutrition, especially among students identified as severely wasted or wasted during health assessments. Better nutrition should translate into improved focus and participation.
Key Player
**Ms. Joan Castor**, Project ETC’s Logistics Coordinator, played a pivotal role. Her responsibilities included budget planning, creating meal plans, allocating supplies based on student population, and overseeing delivery to each school.
According to the World Food Programme, school feeding programs can improve enrollment rates and academic performance, while also reducing micronutrient deficiencies (WFP 2024).
Project Aims
By fighting hunger and malnutrition, Project ETC seeks to enhance students’ physical health and create a more inclusive learning environment. CPU Project ETC’s feeding program aims to ensure every child has the chance to succeed, supported by proper nutrition.
