Evaluation of nutrition education in school curriculum of Nepal: a descriptive content analysis

Abstract Background One of the cornerstone nutrition program in Nepal is School Health and Nutrition Program. But, the program struggles to meet to address the agenda of nutrition as the school curriculum itself lacks relevant topics and accuracy of information regarding knowledge in nutrition, hence lacking a global standard. Aim This curriculum analysis study aims to assess the inclusion of nutrition education in school curricula of Nepal in grades of 6–8, identify gaps, and propose strategies for integrating nutrition education effectively into the curriculum for better nutrition outcomes in children. Methods The curriculum analysis started with a narrative review to identify the prevailing nutrition-related disorders in Nepal. Then, Basic Education Curriculum of Nepal, updated in 2077 for grades 6–8, was reviewed to study its learning outcomes of nutrition-related courses. Then, nutrition-related contents of all subjects in these grades were outlined and mapped. The evaluation of curricular contents based on themes like -current problems in public health nutrition, the accuracy of the nutrition information, the pedagogical approach and assessment techniques, and the strengths and weaknesses of the contents of grades 6–8. At last, the contents on nutrition education were compared with a few international curriculums to evaluate their alignment with global curriculum standards. Results It was found that, although, there is an escalating prevalence of obesity, anemia, and micronutrient deficiencies among school-going children in Nepal, the national curriculum has significant shortcomings in relevance to the content and accuracy of the information on these topics. Conclusion Therefore, an updated curriculum addressing current needs should be put in place, which also offers opportunities for in-depth learning to children by adoption of effective strategies for curriculum development and delivery.