Children in Laskein block are benefiting from kitchen gardens at their schools, with their meals enhanced by the extra nutritious produce.
Recently, the State PM Poshan Cell, under the Directorate of School Education and Literacy (DSEL), conducted a school inspection at Laskein block in West Jaintia Hills.
The block comprises two villages, namely Laskein and Mukhap, and covers three schools – Laskein Government Lower Primary School, Mukhap Government Lower Primary School and Mukhap Presbyterian Lower and Upper SSA School.
“We’re delighted to report that all three schools are in good condition, needing only minor repairs and maintenance,” DSEL stated, adding that these schools have kitchens and kitchen gardens, ensuring that the children enjoy nutritious meals.
“While washing and drinking facilities are available, a connection to a water source is required. All of the required repairs and issues will be inspected and necessary actions will be taken by the department,” it added.
Director of School Education and Literacy Swapnil Tembe, who is also State Project Director (SPD) of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), had recently stated that the Education Department will encourage kitchen gardens.
According to him, kitchen gardens are beautiful and children will be taught the importance of vegetables and trees, with the nutritious produce going into the midday meals in the schools as well.
Tembe had also stressed on the importance of transitioning from firewood to LPG for cooking even as he also inquired about smokeless chulhas and solar cooking stoves to reduce carbon footprints.
