JICA Shokuiku (Food Education) Study Trip and Site Visit in Kyoto City, Japan (31 August 2025 - 6 September 2025)

Study Trip and Site Visit on Food Education (Shokuiku) and the School Lunch System in Kyoto City, Japan (31 August–6 September, 2025)

With technical and financial support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a delegation from the Department of Health, led by Dr. Pongpol Vorapani, Deputy Director-General, undertook a study trip and site visit to Kyoto City, Japan, from 31 August to 6 September 2025. The visit focused on food education (Shokuiku) and the school lunch system.

The delegation also included:

1. Saipin Chotivichien, Director, Bureau of Nutrition

2. Visaratana Therakomen, Deputy Director, Bureau of Nutrition

3. Wareethip Phuengpan, Nutritionist and Head of the Nutrition Promotion for Mother and Child Group, Bureau of Nutrition

4. Pattamaporn Aksornchu, Nutritionist and Head of the Nutrition Promotion for School-Aged Children and Adolescent Group, Bureau of Nutrition

The participants observed and exchanged knowledge on best practices in implementing nutrition and food education (Shokuiku) initiatives, as well as Japan’s school lunch (meal) program.

During the visit, the delegation toured Saiin Primary School, the Kyoto City Board of Education, Kaishin Nursery School, the Child and Youth Support Bureau, and the Second School Meal Center of the Kusatsu City Board of Education. They exchanged ideas and experiences with government officials, school principals, nutrition teachers, and other staff members. The participants learned strategies for engaging parents and families through newsletters and menu displays, involving students in nutrition education to strengthen problem-solving skills, and further improving Thailand’s food hygiene and quality standards.

In addition, a consultative meeting was held in Kyoto City between the Department of Health and JICA senior executives to advance collaboration on food education and the improvement of school lunch quality in Thailand. Discussions included the potential development of training programs with the involvement of Ministry of Education, Ministry of Public Health, and technical advisors. Such initiatives are expected to play a key role in supporting the planning and implementation of a pilot project in Thailand in the near future.