UNESCO: Educational achievement is hampered by lack of investment in health and nutrition

While investing in school health and nutrition has a significant positive effect on children’s academic achievement, 1 in 3 schools in the world still lack access to drinking water and basic sanitation facilities, according to a new report to be launched on 8 February by UNESCO, UNICEF and the WFP.

The report, ‘Ready to learn and thrive: School health and nutrition around the world’ shows that the provision of school health and nutrition incentivize children to come to school, and to stay there.

School meals alone increase enrolment and attendance rates by 9% and 8%, respectively. The report underlines that all these measures represent a significant return on investment for countries, in addition to improving the daily lives and study conditions of children.

UNESCO, UNICEF and WFP appeal to international community, countries and partners to step up actions to protect and promote the physical and mental health, nutrition, well-being and development of all learners.