A nutrition awareness program focusing on the quality and benefits of zinc-enriched crops was organized to promote nutritional awareness among students in Thakurgaon. The discussion session was held on Wednesday at the premises of Kathaldangi Girls’ High School in Haripur Upazila, Thakurgaon. The program was implemented by HarvestPlus under the REACTS-IN project, supported by RDRS, a press release said.

The campaign was attended by Penina Muoki, Country Manager of Nutri Agrifusion Africa (Kenya), as the chief guest. Other distinguished guests included Md. Mozibar Rahman, Program Manager of HarvestPlus Solutions; Shahinul Kabir, Project Manager; Enamul Haque, Head of Agriculture of RDRS; and Dr. Salahuddin, Team Leader of RDRS.

Following the discussion session, a day-long quiz competition was organized among the students on the quality and benefits of zinc-enriched crops. 

Commenting on the campaign, the organizing committee stated, “This nutrition awareness program and discussion on the quality and benefits of zinc-enriched foods, organized for the school students is both timely and highly significant. Through this campaign, students are getting to access first-hand knowledge about the nutritional value and health benefits of biofortified or zinc-enriched foods. Conducting these awareness programs across the country will further strengthen students’ understanding of nutrition and health.”

Alongside the nutrition awareness campaign, the delegation also visited Urmi Chira Mill in Thakurgaon, a processing facility that produces flattened rice from zinc-enriched paddy.

Earlier on July 21, the delegation held a discussion session at the headquarters of the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) in Thakurgaon with policymakers and relevant stakeholders on the benefits of zinc-enriched foods. The session was attended by school teachers, mosque imams, nutritionists, agricultural experts, and medical professionals.