Should Universities Bring Back Student Meal Programs?

[Eronda]

For many university students, hunger is becoming an invisible companion in their academic journey. A growing number of students complain that they spend entire days attending lectures, studying, and participating in university life on empty stomachs, only to return to their hostels in the evening to survive on a cup of porridge.

Some argue that if the situation continues, students' health, concentration, and academic performance will suffer greatly. This has reignited the debate about whether universities should reintroduce daily student meal programs as was common in many institutions years ago.

Supporters of the proposal argue that learning and hunger cannot coexist effectively. A student who has attended lectures from morning until evening without a proper meal is unlikely to be fully attentive in class. Research has consistently shown that nutrition plays a critical role in concentration, memory, and overall cognitive performance. Universities are centers of learning, and if students are unable to meet their basic nutritional needs, the quality of education is inevitably affected.

There is also a welfare argument. Many students come from families struggling with rising living costs and increasing tuition fees. While universities often assume students can independently provide for their daily needs, the reality is that many survive on extremely limited budgets. A university-supported meal program would act as a safety net, ensuring that no student has to choose between buying study materials and eating lunch.

Furthermore, access to affordable meals could improve student health and wellbeing. Poor nutrition can lead to fatigue, illness, stress, and even mental health challenges. By providing at least one balanced meal a day, universities would be investing not only in academic success but also in the physical and emotional welfare of their students.