At HarvestPlus Solutions, we recognize that empowering young people is fundamental to building healthier communities. A key part of our approach is the Nutri Pathshala program, which relies heavily on the engagement of Nutri Buddies—motivated students who play a pivotal role in educating school children on essential topics like nutrition, hygiene, and the importance of physical activity. By becoming Nutri Buddies, these university students take on the vital role of nutrition ambassadors, sharing crucial health information and helping to lay the foundation for healthier, more informed generations.

Nutri Buddies are central to the success of the Nutri Pathshala program. Trained to lead sessions on a wide range of nutrition-related topics, they educate children on topics such as nutrition deficiencies, biofortification, and understanding food labels. Additionally, they facilitate discussions on personal hygiene, empowering students to make informed decisions about their health. Nutri Buddies also track project progress, maintain nutrition diaries, and gather feedback to ensure that the Nutri Pathshala initiative continues to evolve and reach its full potential.

For many Nutri Buddies, their journey extends far beyond their role. The skills and experience they gain often lead to further leadership opportunities. One such example is Anjana, a former Nutri Buddy, who transitioned to the role of State Coordinator for Maharashtra at HarvestPlus Solutions. In this position, she now oversees the strategic planning and implementation of Nutri Pathshala across the state. Having firsthand experience with the challenges and successes of the program as a Nutri Buddy, Anjana uses this knowledge to guide and support other Nutri Buddies, ensuring that the program continues to flourish.

“Being a Nutri Buddy gave me a deep understanding of the impact this program has on students,” says Anjana. “Now, as a State Coordinator, I can take those lessons and apply them on a larger scale, helping Nutri Buddies succeed and ensuring that Nutri Pathshala continues to make a real difference in communities across Maharashtra.”

The true power of Nutri Pathshala lies in its emphasis on youth empowerment. By engaging university students as Nutri Buddies, the program not only disseminates critical health knowledge but also nurtures a sense of responsibility and leadership. Nutri Buddies have the opportunity to serve as role models, teaching students the importance of healthy living while developing valuable leadership, communication, and organizational skills. This engagement fosters lasting change, as students, empowered with knowledge, become agents of transformation in their homes and communities.

As Anjana puts it, “Every Nutri Buddy is part of a larger movement to build a healthier, more informed tomorrow, and I’m honored to be part of that change.”