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Robert Akparibo appointed Co-Chair of global school nutrition consortium
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Dr. Robert Akparibo, a Senior Lecturer in Global Health and Nutrition at the University of Sheffield, has been appointed as Co-Chair of the Global School Meals Coalition Research Consortium for School Health and Nutrition. This appointment places the academic at the centre of international efforts to integrate education with health and nutrition policies. By leading this consortium, Dr. Akparibo will help shape strategies that aim to improve the wellbeing and future opportunities of children and adolescents on a global scale. The Research Consortium is a key partner in major international initiatives, including the production of UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report. Dr. Akparibo’s work will specifically contribute to the Learn to Eat Well report, which advocates for stronger food literacy within school curricula. This initiative emphasizes that schools should not only provide food but also educate students on healthy eating habits, fostering a sustainable approach to child health and nutrition. Beyond policy development, Dr. Akparibo’s role involves addressing urgent nutritional needs in conflict zones. He is currently involved in efforts to restore school meal programmes in Ukraine, where access to nutritious food has been severely compromised. By establishing global standards and sharing research-backed practices, the Consortium aims to ensure that school meals are nutritious, accessible, and consistently delivered, regardless of a country’s economic or political situation. This leadership role reflects a broader move toward evidence-based policymaking in global health. Through his work with the Global School Meals Coalition, Dr. Akparibo is expected to drive progress toward universal access to school-based health and nutrition services. These efforts are viewed as essential for achieving long-term educational outcomes and public health goals, ensuring that children across the world are physically and mentally equipped to succeed in their studies and beyond.