Free Nutritious Meal Program During Ramadan, PGSD UNU Jogja Encourages an Educational Approach in Elementary Schools

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that the Free Nutritious Meal Program (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) will continue during the month of Ramadan with specially adjusted implementation schemes. This policy requires a tailored approach, particularly for elementary school students who are observing the fast.

Responding to this matter, the Head of the Elementary School Teacher Education Study Program (PGSD) at Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Yogyakarta (UNU Jogja), Dr. Murdianto, stated that the MBG program remains important during Ramadan as part of fulfilling the nutritional needs of school-age children. However, he emphasized the need for adjustments within the educational environment so that the government program aligns with religious learning processes in schools.

Teachers as Key Role Models in Education

In the context of learning during Ramadan, teachers are expected to wisely address the diverse conditions of students, including differences in religious backgrounds. Teachers play a crucial role in fostering mutual respect, especially among students who are fasting and those who are not.

“Teachers need to instill respect for differences, particularly among students of different beliefs. For Muslim children, fasting before reaching puberty is understood as part of the educational process and also as a lesson in tolerance,” he explained.

He also highlighted the importance of strengthening teachers’ pedagogical, professional, social, and personal competencies. A constructivist learning approach is considered relevant, where learning takes place collaboratively and cooperatively, allowing students from diverse social, religious, gender, and cultural backgrounds to understand one another.

PGSD Students Equipped with Child Development Understanding

This issue is also integrated into coursework at the PGSD Study Program of UNU Jogja. Pre-service teachers are equipped with knowledge of child development, classroom management, and adaptive learning approaches that consider social and cultural contexts.

“Future teachers need to view education policies not only from the perspective of regulations, but also from their impact on children. Our students learn to be both professional and empathetic,” he added.

Through a contextual learning approach, the PGSD Study Program at UNU Jogja is committed to preparing future elementary school teachers who are capable of responding to educational policy dynamics—including school nutrition programs—in a wise, inclusive, and child-centered manner. [Latifah]