The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP): School Feeding in South Africa
The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) is a government programme administered by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) that provides a daily hot meal to learners at qualifying public schools. The NSNP targets schools in poorer communities to improve learner attendance, concentration, and learning outcomes. Over 9 million learners across more than 20,000 schools benefit from the programme each school day.
What Is the NSNP?
The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) was introduced in 1994 as the Primary School Nutrition Programme and has expanded significantly since then. It is one of the largest school feeding programmes in Africa. The programme is funded by the National Treasury and implemented by provincial education departments in partnership with the DBE.
The NSNP provides a hot, nutritious meal to learners on every school day. The meal typically includes a starch (pap, rice, or samp), a protein (beans, eggs, or fish), and vegetables. Micronutrient-fortified foods are incorporated to address nutritional deficiencies.
Which Schools Are Included in the NSNP?
The NSNP primarily targets Quintile 1, 2, and 3 schools (no-fee schools in the poorest communities). Some Quintile 4 schools in especially disadvantaged areas may also be included at the discretion of the provincial education department.
If you are unsure whether your child's school is on the NSNP, ask the school principal or contact your district education office.
Who Benefits?
- Learners at qualifying public Quintile 1, 2, and 3 schools
- Primary school learners (Grade R to Grade 7) are prioritised
- Secondary school learners at qualifying schools are also included in most provinces
- Learners with special needs at special schools in qualifying quintiles
The NSNP is available to all learners at qualifying schools, regardless of family income. No application is required from parents.
Nutritional Standards
DBE nutritional guidelines for the NSNP require that each meal provides a minimum number of kilojoules and includes a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients. The guidelines encourage the use of locally sourced produce and support school food gardens.
Many NSNP schools maintain a food garden that contributes vegetables to the feeding programme. This also serves as an educational resource for learners.
How the NSNP Is Managed at School Level
Each NSNP school appoints food handlers who are responsible for preparing and serving meals. Food handlers receive training in food safety and hygiene. The school principal oversees the programme and reports on meal provision to the district education office.
The SGB (School Governing Body) may assist in monitoring the quality of meals and the management of NSNP funds. Parents can raise concerns about meal quality or irregular service with the SGB or the district office.
Diversion of NSNP food or funds for purposes other than learner meals is a serious offence. Report suspected misuse to the DBE, provincial education department, or the Public Service Commission.
What to Do If Your Child Is Not Receiving NSNP Meals
If your child attends a qualifying school but is not receiving meals, raise the matter with the school principal. If the problem persists, contact the district education office or the DBE directly.
DBE Contact: www.education.gov.za | 012 357 3000. Provincial education departments also have NSNP coordinators who can investigate and resolve problems.