Chilean opposition demands Junaeb explain alleged cuts to school food rations

Opposition lawmakers in Chile have sharply criticized the National Institute of Youth Assistance and Scholarships (Junaeb) over alleged reductions in food rations provided to students. The criticism follows reports from parents at the Liceo Salesiano San José in Punta Arenas, who denounced a significant decrease in the number of meals being served.

According to reports, Junaeb's regional directorate justified the reduction by citing a general low acceptance of legumes featured in the day's menu. Consequently, only 160 of the expected 330 rations were to be distributed. This move has drawn strong condemnation from opposition figures who had been assured by the government that school meal programs would not face cuts.

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In the midst of the fiscal adjustment the Government is carrying out, it cannot be intended to save resources at the cost of such a basic and essential right.

"In the midst of the fiscal adjustment the Government is carrying out, it cannot be intended to save resources at the cost of such a basic and essential right," stated Congressman Luis Cuello. He accused the current administration of contradicting its earlier promises regarding school nutrition. His colleague, Daniela Serrano, emphasized that "the nutrition of our children cannot be the adjustment variable." She called for clear government explanations and guarantees that no child will receive less food than they need.

Lawmakers are demanding accountability, with Congresswoman Ana María Gazmuri announcing that Junaeb's secretary-general will be summoned to the Education Commission to address these alleged cuts. Junaeb, however, attributed the reduction to a standard adjustment mechanism, as reported by La Tercera.

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the nutrition of our children cannot be the adjustment variable.