The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program has been proven to have a positive impact on children’s concentration levels, as evidenced by improvements in short-term memory assessments. This enhancement is expected to contribute to increased motivation for learning among students. Research conducted in Aceh has shown that students who receive Free Nutritious Meals demonstrate improved concentration, which in turn leads to better educational outcomes and fosters a stronger desire to learn. According to Ikeu Tanziha, an Expert Council Member of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), similar results were found in a study conducted by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in areas like Bogor and Papua. The MBG program has been shown to enhance learning focus and cognitive performance, especially for students who did not have breakfast previously. A case study at State Vocational School 6 (SMK Negeri 6) in Medan also revealed that MBG significantly increased attendance motivation and concentration during classes. Ikeu highlighted the importance of concentration in relation to attention and cognitive function, emphasizing its role in brain development during a child’s formative years. Factors such as learning motivation, nutritional intake, psychological well-being, and physiological conditions like sleep quality, noise, and lighting can all influence a child’s ability to concentrate. Ikeu further explained that key nutrients such as protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain development and cognitive function, particularly memory. She emphasized the significance of nutritional intake in supporting brain development and memory function, underscoring the role of the MBG Program in meeting children’s nutritional needs for physical growth, cognitive potential, and intelligence enhancement. Despite challenges related to children’s unhealthy eating habits and limited access to nutritious foods in certain regions, Ikeu called for collective efforts to support the successful implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals Program. She firmly believes that this initiative will bring lasting benefits for future generations and society as a whole.
