Teachers to Become Master Trainers for Better Mid-Day Meals

Gurgaon: The Haryana education department has planned to upskill four to five trained graduate teachers from every block in each district as ‘master trainers’ for cooking staff. The department will no longer train cook-cum-helpers and instead rely on the teachers to pass on lessons in nutrition, health and hygiene.The teachers, preferably from those teaching home science, will be nominated. Home science teachers possess a fundamental understanding of food science, nutrition and health protocols. Once they become master trainers, they will guide the cook-cum-helpers on how to prepare meals hygienically.This model is expected to significantly improve the overall quality of food served in govt schools.The department aims to revamp the midday meal scheme across the state by ensuring that students receive a balanced, safe and nutritious diet. It believes that better meal quality will habe a direct impact on student engagement and increase attendance.The midday meal scheme serves students from Class I to Class VIII, with a pre-set menu designed to provide a variety of meals throughout the week.A senior education officer said the department has requested lists of teachers from all districts to begin the training process. This move marks a shift towards professionalising the meal preparation process in schools, ensuring that every child has access to the fuel they need to succeed academically.