Monitoring School-Based Nutrition Programmes on Cognitive Development Using Growth Charts in Ethiopian Primary Schools: A Snapshot

School-based nutrition programmes are critical for improving child health outcomes in developing countries like Ethiopia. However, their impact on cognitive development remains underexplored. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative data from growth chart measurements and qualitative insights through interviews with teachers and parents. Growth charts consistently indicated significant improvements in height-for-age z-scores (HAZ) among children enrolled in the nutrition programme compared to those not participating. The findings suggest that school-based nutrition programmes can positively impact cognitive development as evidenced by improved nutritional status indicators. Further longitudinal studies should be conducted to explore long-term effects and potential mechanisms of action behind these improvements.