Overview:
Fresh, locally grown produce could soon become a bigger part of preschool meals in Palau as school cooks complete specialized training focused on nutrition, menu planning and local agriculture. The initiative will culminate in a School Chef Competition on July 28, highlighting new skills while promoting healthier meals for children and stronger support for local farmers.
By: Laurel Marewibuel
Koror, Palau — An effort to bring more fresh, locally grown food into school meals took a step forward after the completion of Stage 1 training for preschool cooks, organizers said, part of a partnership with the Palau Community Action Agency and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
The training included farm tours to introduce cooks to local fruits and vegetables, sessions with nutritionists to design healthy, child-friendly menus, and lessons on planting herbs for use in school kitchens, organizers said. The initiative aims to improve nutrition for young children while supporting local farmers and food systems.
“I think it’s a great idea because fresh local food is healthier and supports our local farmers at the same time. If children eat nutritious meals at school, they’ll have more energy to learn and grow,” said Lina, a parent.
“Kids build healthy habits early in life. Serving fresh, local food helps them appreciate our local produce while giving them better nutrition every day,” said Ryan, a local chef.
Organizers said the training is intended not only to raise meal quality but also to recognize and motivate school cooks. A School Chef Competition, scheduled for July 28, will give cooks a public platform to showcase new skills learned during the program.
“I think it’s a wonderful initiative. The training gives school cooks new ideas, and the competition makes learning fun while encouraging them to prepare even better meals for our children,” Lina said.
“I fully support it. It recognizes the hard work of school cooks and motivates them to keep improving. In the end, it’s the students who benefit the most,” added Ryan.
Officials urged communities to watch for the competition and encouraged support for efforts that pair nutrition education with local agriculture.
