World Food Day: Healthy Food — Healthy Future

As established by the FAO Conference in 1979, World Food Day is celebrated annually across the globe. The day aims to draw attention to issues of food security, hunger and malnutrition, promote healthy diets, and raise awareness about the importance of building sustainable agrifood systems.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in cooperation with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ministry of Preschool and School Education (MPSE), organized a large educational event at School No. 13 in Tashkent Region’s Zangiota District under the theme “World Food Day: Healthy Food — Healthy Future.” The event was held within the framework of FAO’s project “Support to improving food security and healthy nutrition through piloting the school feeding programme.”

During the opening session, experts emphasized the direct impact of healthy nutrition on children’s development, academic performance, and long-term well-being. They provided information on initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of healthy and environmentally sustainable eating among students. Participants also viewed short video materials prepared by FAO.

The main part of the event featured a competition titled “Best Recipe for Healthy and Environmentally Sustainable Nutrition.” Teams of students from various grades presented affordable, nutritious and eco-friendly recipes. Each team creatively showcased its dish, highlighting its nutritional value, preparation method, and environmental relevance.

Students also took part in an interactive quiz titled “Eat Right — Protect Our Planet.” The questions were based on methodological guides provided to schools: “12 Principles of Healthy Nutrition,” “5 Keys to Safer Food,” and “5 Rules of Eco-friendly Behaviour.” The quiz helped reinforce students’ knowledge and encouraged environmentally responsible attitudes.

At the conclusion of the event, the winners of the competition were announced and presented with memorable prizes from FAO. A fun programme followed, including dancing and a mini-quiz on healthy eating.

FAO Project Coordinator Orifjon Namozov stated:
“Instilling healthy eating habits from an early age is the foundation of a healthy and sustainable future. Initiatives like this not only promote healthy lifestyles but also strengthen children’s sense of environmental responsibility and awareness regarding food.”

This local initiative, held in honor of World Food Day, aligns with global objectives and contributes to fostering a healthy generation and advancing sustainable agrifood systems in Uzbekistan.