From November 20 to 22, 2025, the capital of Tajikistan will become a hub for international dialogue on the health and well-being of the next generation. The National Library of Dushanbe will host the 2nd International CIS Forum titled “School Feeding as Investment in a Healthy Generation.”
The event will continue the strategic course set in 2023 in Bishkek, bringing together representatives of national ministries of health and education from CIS member states to develop joint solutions and share best practices.
Who are the organizers?
The Forum is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population, and the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Tajikistan, with the support of the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
Key partners include the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in Tajikistan and the Russian Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI), which acts as the CIS Basic Organization on School Feeding.
Key topics
The Forum’s goal goes beyond experience sharing. It aims to lay out concrete plans for the future. Participants will explore how to make school meals even more nutritious, safe, and accessible. The discussions will focus on:
National school feeding development programmes;
Modernization of school canteens and ensuring food quality and safety;
The impact of healthy nutrition on students’ academic performance and physical development;
Successful national initiatives promoting a culture of healthy living among children.
The discussions will culminate in the signing of a resolution that will define joint steps for CIS countries to strengthen child health and well-being.
What to expect
Plenary sessions and thematic discussions with the participation of ministers and senior officials from CIS countries;
Presentation of Tajikistan’s achievements: a large-scale project supported by WFP and the Russian Federation, which today provides free hot meals to more than 440,000 Tajik schoolchildren;
Awards ceremony honoring distinguished professionals and organizations for their contributions to the development of school feeding;
Adoption of a Joint Resolution outlining practical ways for further regional cooperation.
Media accreditation
Journalists and media representatives are warmly invited to cover this significant event. Your reports and stories will help highlight the vital importance of healthy school meals to a wide audience.
For accreditation, please contact the Forum Press Office:
Vladimir Kalinin
Tel.: +7-909-990-14-14
E-mail: protdel.sro@gmail.com
Background
School feeding is not merely a social service. It is a long-term investment in a nation’s health and future. In Tajikistan, the School Feeding Programme has been successfully developing for over 25 years with strong support from international partners. The upcoming Forum in Dushanbe aims to define new priorities for these vital investments, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy.