National Children’s Day in Indonesia holds more significance than just a mere annual celebration. President Prabowo Subianto aims for this occasion to lead to tangible actions that will secure the future of the nation’s children. To achieve this, the government has introduced three main programs specifically addressing the well-being of children: Nutritious Free Meals (MBG), Free Health Checkups (CKG), and School Revitalization. The MBG program, overseen by Dedek Prayudi, Senior Expert at the Presidential Communications Office, focuses not only on providing full stomachs but also on ensuring that children receive proper nutrition daily. Data from the Ministry of Health reveals that a significant percentage of school-aged children attend school without eating breakfast, leading to problems with focus and fatigue. Furthermore, skipping breakfast contributes to iron deficiency anemia, a condition that can cause significant cognitive impairment. In Jakarta, Uki emphasized the importance of nutrient-rich meals for children’s cognitive and physical development. In addition to MBG, the government is implementing Free Health Checkups to address various health issues among students. These checkups encompass aspects such as vision, hearing, tuberculosis, and mental health, aligning with the constitutional provision of healthcare rights for all citizens. Another key initiative is the School Revitalization Program, aiming to renovate 11,440 schools in 2025, prioritizing schools in remote and underprivileged areas with inadequate facilities. President Prabowo has allocated significant funds to address the pressing issue of structural damage in schools across the country. Uki emphasized the urgency of improving school facilities, highlighting the challenges faced by students, particularly girls, in schools with inadequate amenities. This program not only focuses on educational outcomes but also on providing a safe and dignified environment for all students.
Membela Anak-Anak: Kesehatan, Nutrisi, dan Keamanan di Sekolah
