Nutrition Education Launched in Cambodian Primary and Secondary Schools Through 9-Year Collaboration by Japanese NGO

The International Development and Relief Foundation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Nobuhiro Iijima; abbreviation: FIDR "Fider") is an international cooperation NGO active in Cambodia and other Asian countries. Until recently, nutrition education in Cambodian primary and secondary schools could be described as virtually "nonexistent." Since 2017, FIDR has dispatched a nutrition education specialist (Nagato Kai) to the country, providing continuous support in curriculum development, textbook writing, and teaching methodology. As a result, local teachers have now begun delivering nutrition classes. A firsthand report from the specialist highlights the significance of a Japanese NGO—based in the birthplace of "shokuiku" (food education)—creating a nationwide nutrition education system, along with the challenges behind this achievement.

In Cambodia, nutrition had long been neglected in schools, contributing to persistent malnutrition among the population. The Cambodian Ministry of Education introduced a "Health" subject into the curriculum for primary through high schools, positioning "Nutrition" as a key learning unit. However, realizing systematic nutrition education required extensive technical cooperation—from curriculum design at the administrative level to practical teaching methods in classrooms.

Teachers and students holding completed nutrition and health textbooks

FIDR had previously collaborated with Cambodia's Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education since 2014, leading the development of the "Nutrient Requirements Guidelines for School-Age Children" and the "Dietary Guidelines." Based on this track record, the Ministry of Education requested FIDR's support. The nine-year project, launched in 2017, was made possible through membership fees and donations from Japanese companies and individuals. The project also focused on establishing "model schools" to serve as exemplars for nutrition education across Cambodia, with four schools already showing remarkable improvements in teaching capacity and school environments.

In Cambodia, a country facing multiple social challenges, proper nutrition through daily meals is essential for citizens to live healthy lives and achieve stable development. To share the long journey toward realizing nutrition education—and the collaborative efforts of FIDR and local partners—we are hosting a project report event. We warmly invite your participation.

【Event Details】

● Date: Friday, July 31, 2026, 19:00–20:30

Doors open: 18:45

● Venue: Kagayaki Plaza, Training Rooms 1 & 2 (1-6-10 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074) / Online via Zoom

【Inquiries】

Public Relations (Motonaga, Nakagawa) International Development and Relief Foundation (FIDR)

(Tel) 03-5282-5211 (FAX) 03-3294-2525 (Email) [email protected]

● Registration: https://www.fidr.or.jp/news/20260707.html