Impact of School Meal Program on Child Nutrition and Academic Performance

This study will assess the impact of a school meal program on the nutritional status and academic performance of primary school children in Lahore, Pakistan. Children aged 6-11 years from selected government primary schools will participate in the study. Children in the intervention group will receive a balanced school meal during school hours for 12 weeks, providing approximately one-third of their daily energy requirement, while children in the control group will continue their usual dietary practices. The study will compare changes in children's nutritional status, including weight, height, body mass index, mid-upper arm circumference, and body composition, as well as school attendance and examination performance. The study will also examine whether nutritional status is related to academic performance.

Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged 6-11 years (Grades 1-5). * Children enrolled in the selected government primary schools. * Children present on the day of data collection. * Parental or guardian consent obtained. Exclusion Criteria: * Children with chronic illness affecting growth. * Students absent during data collection. * Refusal of consent by parents or guardians.