INTERNATIONAL FORUMS
Seminars, forums, and other international events organized by the Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI)
First CIS School Feeding Forum 2023
Under the auspices of the Office of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with support from the UN World Food Programme and the Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI), the first CIS Forum on School Feeding took place.
The event aimed to exchange expertise on school feeding and develop a common strategy to enhance the effectiveness and quality of school meal programmes across CIS countries.
The event aimed to exchange expertise on school feeding and develop a common strategy to enhance the effectiveness and quality of school meal programmes across CIS countries.
- For the first time, CIS countries convened to discuss strategies for improving school feeding.
- The initiative was launched by the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov.
- Attendees included government representatives from CIS countries, international organizations, and the private sector.
- Field visits were organized to Bishkek schools to showcase upgraded canteen infrastructure, improved menus, modern teaching methods for educating children and parents about healthy eating, and the training of specialists involved in providing school meals.
- CIS representatives shared their experiences in implementing and improving school feeding programmes.
Key highlights of the Forum:
- Edil Baisalov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic
- Dogdurkul Kendirbaeva, Minister of Education of Kyrgyzstan
- Denis Trefilov, Deputy Secretary-General of the CIS
- Vladimir Chernigov, President of the Russian Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute
- John Aylieff, UN WFP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific
- Antje Grawe, UN Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyzstan
- Kojiro Nakai, UN WFP Representative and Country Director in Kyrgyzstan
- Denis Gribov, Deputy Minister of Education of the Russian Federation
- Representatives from the Ministries of Education of Armenia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
The Forum recognized school feeding as a critical factor in social and economic development. Participants emphasized that successful school meal programmes contribute to improved child health, agricultural support, and economic growth.
The event drew the attention of high-ranking officials from various nations, who shared experiences and explored pathways for improving school feeding programmes.
The Forum concluded with the adoption of a Declaration on strengthening cooperation in the field of school feeding across the CIS.
Participants Included:
September 2016 marked a milestone for Armenia, as Yerevan hosted the Global Child Nutrition Forum (GCNF) for the first time in the CIS region. For 18 years, this Forum has united nations committed to continuously improving their school meal programmes and bringing up healthy generations.
Experts from around the world gathered to share experiences and discuss best practices in school feeding. The event provided a platform to highlight Armenia's National School Feeding Programme and its achievements. The Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI) acted as the Forum's technical partner.
Experts from around the world gathered to share experiences and discuss best practices in school feeding. The event provided a platform to highlight Armenia's National School Feeding Programme and its achievements. The Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI) acted as the Forum's technical partner.
Global Child Nutrition Forum 2016
(GCNF 2016)
The Forum commenced with a meeting with Armenia’s President, Serzh Sargsyan, who warmly welcomed key participants, including UN WFP Executive Director Ertharin Cousin; GCNF Co-founder Gene White; and SIFI President Vladimir Chernigov.
President Sargsyan emphasized the importance of National School Feeding Programmes for children’s health and education, expressing gratitude to all partners supporting the Programme’s implementation in Armenia. Mr. Chernigov was awarded a medal in recognition of his significant contribution to developing school feeding in Armenia.
The Forum's central theme was the creation of sustainable and effective National School Feeding Programmes. Discussions addressed critical topics, including integrating these programmes with child health initiatives and social protection efforts. Participants shared success stories and tackled challenges faced by different nations. Interactive sessions encouraged participants to propose ideas and solutions.
One of the Forum's most engaging activities was field visits to local schools. Delegates witnessed firsthand the implementation of Armenia’s National School Feeding Programme. The visits included interactive activities where participants baked traditional Armenian bread, matnakash, planted fruit trees, and joined children in games. These activities offered a deeper understanding of the Programme’s impact and allowed attendees to actively engage with Armenian schoolchildren.
The Programme featured consultations, seminars, and masterclasses, focusing on sharing best practices in school feeding. Participants established valuable connections, gained new insights, and developed innovative project ideas.
The Forum concluded with the adoption of a Final Communiqué emphasizing the need for inter-agecy coordination platforms and robust legal frameworks for the long-term implementation of school feeding initiatives. The communiqué also highlighted the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Global Child Nutrition Forum 2016 in Yerevan was a landmark event that promoted the development of National School Feeding Programmes. Meetings with the President, thematic discussions, school visits, and the adoption of the communiqué underscored the critical role of sustainable and effective school feeding programmes in improving children’s health and education worldwide.
President Sargsyan emphasized the importance of National School Feeding Programmes for children’s health and education, expressing gratitude to all partners supporting the Programme’s implementation in Armenia. Mr. Chernigov was awarded a medal in recognition of his significant contribution to developing school feeding in Armenia.
The Forum's central theme was the creation of sustainable and effective National School Feeding Programmes. Discussions addressed critical topics, including integrating these programmes with child health initiatives and social protection efforts. Participants shared success stories and tackled challenges faced by different nations. Interactive sessions encouraged participants to propose ideas and solutions.
One of the Forum's most engaging activities was field visits to local schools. Delegates witnessed firsthand the implementation of Armenia’s National School Feeding Programme. The visits included interactive activities where participants baked traditional Armenian bread, matnakash, planted fruit trees, and joined children in games. These activities offered a deeper understanding of the Programme’s impact and allowed attendees to actively engage with Armenian schoolchildren.
The Programme featured consultations, seminars, and masterclasses, focusing on sharing best practices in school feeding. Participants established valuable connections, gained new insights, and developed innovative project ideas.
The Forum concluded with the adoption of a Final Communiqué emphasizing the need for inter-agecy coordination platforms and robust legal frameworks for the long-term implementation of school feeding initiatives. The communiqué also highlighted the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Global Child Nutrition Forum 2016 in Yerevan was a landmark event that promoted the development of National School Feeding Programmes. Meetings with the President, thematic discussions, school visits, and the adoption of the communiqué underscored the critical role of sustainable and effective school feeding programmes in improving children’s health and education worldwide.
Global Child Nutrition Forum
Moscow hosted the Global Forum on Social Protection and Nutrition for Vulnerable Populations, bringing together representatives of governments, international organizations, and NGOs.
The forum focused on strategies to improve and scale up social protection programmes, fostering a shared understanding of the principles behind these initiatives.
Participants exchanged experiences and innovative approaches, discussing key strategies, tools, and methods for designing and implementing effective social support programmes that enhance food security and reduce poverty.
The forum focused on strategies to improve and scale up social protection programmes, fostering a shared understanding of the principles behind these initiatives.
Participants exchanged experiences and innovative approaches, discussing key strategies, tools, and methods for designing and implementing effective social support programmes that enhance food security and reduce poverty.
on social protection and nutrition for vulnerable populations
Global Forum
Organized by the Russian Federation in collaboration with SIFI, the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the UN World Food Programme (WFP), and other international organizations, the Global Forum welcomed over 150 participants. These included the Vice President of the Dominican Republic, national government officials, and representatives from international organizations who shared their experiences and explored ways to improve existing programmes.
Every forum participant was engaged in implementing social protection programmes in their countries. To establish a common understanding of these programmes aimed at achieving food security, attendees used remote voting to define key terms, engaged in group discussions to examine principles, tools, and approaches, and proposed solutions to specific challenges through brief presentations.
Special emphasis was placed on improving nutrition for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and refugees. Participants discussed various approaches to ensuring balanced nutrition, including school feeding programmes, evaluating their effectiveness, and sharing successful implementation examples.
One key forum theme was the integration of mobile technologies into social protection programmes. Mobile applications and platforms have enhanced access to information and services, which is particularly important in contexts of conflict or social disruption. These technologies have improved resource distribution efficiency and enabled better monitoring of food security conditions.
A dedicated session highlighted the practical experiences of BRICS countries in implementing social protection programmes that ensure food security and nutrition. These programmes contribute to achieving the goals outlined in the Declaration adopted at the Second International Conference on Nutrition (ICN2).
The forum served as a critical platform for sharing experiences and exploring innovative approaches to improving nutrition for vulnerable populations. Participants emphasized the necessity of international cooperation and the adoption of modern technologies to achieve food security and reduce poverty.
Key outcomes and recommendations:
The forum concluded with several key findings and recommendations, including:
Every forum participant was engaged in implementing social protection programmes in their countries. To establish a common understanding of these programmes aimed at achieving food security, attendees used remote voting to define key terms, engaged in group discussions to examine principles, tools, and approaches, and proposed solutions to specific challenges through brief presentations.
Special emphasis was placed on improving nutrition for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and refugees. Participants discussed various approaches to ensuring balanced nutrition, including school feeding programmes, evaluating their effectiveness, and sharing successful implementation examples.
One key forum theme was the integration of mobile technologies into social protection programmes. Mobile applications and platforms have enhanced access to information and services, which is particularly important in contexts of conflict or social disruption. These technologies have improved resource distribution efficiency and enabled better monitoring of food security conditions.
A dedicated session highlighted the practical experiences of BRICS countries in implementing social protection programmes that ensure food security and nutrition. These programmes contribute to achieving the goals outlined in the Declaration adopted at the Second International Conference on Nutrition (ICN2).
The forum served as a critical platform for sharing experiences and exploring innovative approaches to improving nutrition for vulnerable populations. Participants emphasized the necessity of international cooperation and the adoption of modern technologies to achieve food security and reduce poverty.
Key outcomes and recommendations:
The forum concluded with several key findings and recommendations, including:
- Introducing innovative technologies to enhance programme effectiveness.
- Establishing conditions for international collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Developing comprehensive approaches to improving the nutrition of vulnerable groups.
- Increasing the use of mobile technologies to support food security efforts.
Promoting social protection programmes
Amid global economic and political turbulences, food security and nutrition were key topics under Russia’s G20 Presidency in 2013. At that time, Civil20 served as a crucial platform for fostering dialogue between civil society and G20 leaders.
Civil20 contributions
under Russia’s G20 Presidency
Under Russia's leadership, key global issues were addressed, including economic development, financial stability, and, of course, food security. Russia actively involved civil society in these discussions, enabling a more comprehensive consideration of the interests of diverse social groups.
Civil20: amplifying voices
Civil20 was established to foster dialogue between civil society and G20 leaders, enabling the development and presentation of high-level policy recommendations. In 2013, during Russia’s G20 presidency, Civil20 was deeply involved in discussions on food security.
The concept of food security encompasses ensuring access to sufficient, high-quality food for all people at all times. To address these challenges, the Civil20 Food Security Working Group was created.
led by the Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI), the Working Group brought together Russian and international experts to discuss and devise solutions for several critical issues:
- Food price crises: Identifying the causes and consequences of sharp food price fluctuations and developing mitigation measures.
- Supporting small farmers: Designing projects to assist smallholder farmers and agricultural cooperatives.
- Linking food security and nutrition: Highlighting the importance of connecting food availability with its nutritional value.
- Promoting responsible consumption: Advocating for sustainable and responsible food consumption practices.
Civil20 Summit: a call to leaders
The highlight of Civil20’s work in 2013 was the summit held in Moscow on June 13–14. The event brought together representatives from NGOs, government officials, and other stakeholders. Heated discussions culminated in the preparation of the document "A Call to Leaders," which outlined key recommendations for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
Collaboration and impact
The efforts of Civil20 under Russia’s presidency demonstrated the importance of involving civil society in global decision-making processes. This approach not only led to development of constructive recommendations but also helped establish meaningful dialogue between various social groups and government agencies. Food security remains one of the most pressing global challenges, and the initiatives undertaken by Civil20 mark a significant step toward addressing this critical issue.
In 2013, Moscow hosted a landmark seminar titled Ensuring Food Security through Social Safety Nets and Risk Management. This event brought together experts, policymakers, and organizations to discuss strategies for addressing food security challenges among vulnerable populations.
through social support programmes for vulnerable populations
Seminar on Food Security
Food security through social support programmes
During Russia's presidency of the G20, food security became a key focus. On May 14, 2013, SIFI, in collaboration with the World Bank, organized a seminar to discuss the most effective ways to support impoverished nations and vulnerable populations through development and implementation of comprehensive social support programmes.
Supporting the development of poor countries
A central theme was aiding the development of impoverished nations. International organizations such as the World Bank, World Food Programme, and Food and Agriculture Organization emphasized the importance of boosting agricultural productivity. Developing rural areas and advancing agricultural technologies are critical for ensuring food security and improving child health in poor regions.
Assisting vulnerable populations
Special attention was given to social programmes for assisting vulnerable groups. Participants explored risk management strategies and opportunities to leverage targeted government investments, private-sector engagement, and community capacity-building. It was emphasized that national policies must create conditions for sustainable agricultural development and universal food security.
The importance of global collaboration
The seminar highlighted the critical role of international cooperation for strengthening food security and reviving rural areas. Contributions from organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the International Labour Organization emphasized the need for enhanced coordination in implementing social support programmes.
Outcomes
The seminar produced a final document submitted to approval by the G20 Development Working Group. The document offered recommendations for improving food security through social support initiatives. Participants once again underscored the importance of continued collaboration among all stakeholders.
During Russia's presidency of the G20, food security became a key focus. On May 14, 2013, SIFI, in collaboration with the World Bank, organized a seminar to discuss the most effective ways to support impoverished nations and vulnerable populations through development and implementation of comprehensive social support programmes.
Supporting the development of poor countries
A central theme was aiding the development of impoverished nations. International organizations such as the World Bank, World Food Programme, and Food and Agriculture Organization emphasized the importance of boosting agricultural productivity. Developing rural areas and advancing agricultural technologies are critical for ensuring food security and improving child health in poor regions.
Assisting vulnerable populations
Special attention was given to social programmes for assisting vulnerable groups. Participants explored risk management strategies and opportunities to leverage targeted government investments, private-sector engagement, and community capacity-building. It was emphasized that national policies must create conditions for sustainable agricultural development and universal food security.
The importance of global collaboration
The seminar highlighted the critical role of international cooperation for strengthening food security and reviving rural areas. Contributions from organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the International Labour Organization emphasized the need for enhanced coordination in implementing social support programmes.
Outcomes
The seminar produced a final document submitted to approval by the G20 Development Working Group. The document offered recommendations for improving food security through social support initiatives. Participants once again underscored the importance of continued collaboration among all stakeholders.
In 2012, Moscow hosted a seminar on school feeding systems, bringing together representatives from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation member states. The event aimed to strengthen economic cooperation and share best practices in school feeding to ensure a healthier future for children.
APEC School Feeding Seminar:
Uniting efforts for children's health
School feeding: the foundation of health and development
School feeding is vital for supporting children’s health and academic performance. Proper nutrition not only fosters physical growth but also enhances cognitive abilities, laying the groundwork for successful learning. The seminar explored various approaches to organizing school feeding within APEC countries, emphasizing the role of national policies and government support.
National policies: the key to sustainable solutions
Each APEC member state showcased its unique approach to school feeding, reflecting national traditions and resources. Participants shared experiences in designing and implementing programmes that improve child nutrition, addressing regional and local challenges, and finding effective solutions.
Children’s health: a priority for building the future
Discussions underscored that school feeding is more than a tool for food security; it is also a cornerstone of social stability. The link between agricultural development and better nutrition for the younger generation calls for a comprehensive and multisectoral approach.
Collaboration and partnership: keys to success
A major takeaway was the conclusion that ongoing cooperation among APEC countries is vital. Participants agreed on the need to develop unified metrics, create a shared information resource for data exchange, and spread best practices.
The future of school feeding in APEC countries
The seminar laid the foundation for promoting school feeding programs. Key proposals included standardizing terms, establishing evaluation criteria, and developing methodologies for data analysis.
This seminar was a crucial milestone in advancing the health and well-being of children throughout the APEC region. By uniting efforts and exchanging best practices, participants paved the way for sustainable development and a healthier future for younger generations.
School feeding is vital for supporting children’s health and academic performance. Proper nutrition not only fosters physical growth but also enhances cognitive abilities, laying the groundwork for successful learning. The seminar explored various approaches to organizing school feeding within APEC countries, emphasizing the role of national policies and government support.
National policies: the key to sustainable solutions
Each APEC member state showcased its unique approach to school feeding, reflecting national traditions and resources. Participants shared experiences in designing and implementing programmes that improve child nutrition, addressing regional and local challenges, and finding effective solutions.
Children’s health: a priority for building the future
Discussions underscored that school feeding is more than a tool for food security; it is also a cornerstone of social stability. The link between agricultural development and better nutrition for the younger generation calls for a comprehensive and multisectoral approach.
Collaboration and partnership: keys to success
A major takeaway was the conclusion that ongoing cooperation among APEC countries is vital. Participants agreed on the need to develop unified metrics, create a shared information resource for data exchange, and spread best practices.
The future of school feeding in APEC countries
The seminar laid the foundation for promoting school feeding programs. Key proposals included standardizing terms, establishing evaluation criteria, and developing methodologies for data analysis.
This seminar was a crucial milestone in advancing the health and well-being of children throughout the APEC region. By uniting efforts and exchanging best practices, participants paved the way for sustainable development and a healthier future for younger generations.
From June 28 to 29, 2012, the Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI) and the APEC Secretariat held the first School Feeding Seminar in Moscow.
APEC School Feeding Seminar