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Under nutrition comes in many forms and shapes, however stunted growth is the prevalent form in PNG. Stunting (impaired growth and development) in children is caused by an inadequate supply of essential nutrients, such as calcium, protein, vitamins and carbohydrates needed for healthy growth.
In August 2021, Papua New Guinea commenced its first trial of milk in schools program. The program implemented by Ilimo Dairy Farm at Nonu Independent Institute of Education, Boroko, Port Moresby is exclusively sponsored by Kina Bank.
The program included daily distribution of a Ilimo milk stik that is made from fresh Ilimo milk, to the school’s children and` included class sessions on a variety of topics that helped the children learn about dairy cows, the milk they produce, the nutrients in milk, the benefits of drinking milk and other dairy products such as yoghurt and even ice cream.
Gallit Tamir, Business development manager of Innovative Agro Industry, the developers and operators of Ilimo Dairy farm said “Nutrition is an integral part of the child’s academic education. Educate the children on good nutrition, to enable them to make the right choices. Provide the children with nutritious meals and they will incorporate what they are taught”.
“Milk contains a full nutritional package. In fact, milk is known to be the number one single food contributor to most of the bone-related growth nutrients. Whole milk alone has 9 essential nutrients that every child needs for their growth”
“We are now looking to expand the Milk in Schools program in 2022 and seeking for more sponsors” she added, “the results of the sponsored by Kina Bank are outstanding. Not only did we record impressive positive impact in the physical growth of the children that received the daily dairy portion, moreover their attendance and cognitive development including in aspects monitored such as reading and writing, concentration in class and social skills has reflected remarkable improvement as the program progressed.”
