Human Resource Capacity in Global School Feeding Programs: Lessons for Indonesia’s MBG Policy

Abstract

Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meal Program (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing child nutrition and educational outcomes nationwide. However, its implementation faces persistent challenges related to human resource capacity, institutional coordination, and program management. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 116 Scopus-indexed journal articles (2020–2025) to map global research trends in school feeding programs, focusing on human resource management and capacity building. Using VOSviewer, we identified five dominant thematic clusters: (1) capacity building and health promotion, (2) clinical nutrition interventions, (3) food security and policy governance, (4) education and organizational management, and (5) stakeholder engagement and leadership. "Capacity building" emerged as a central node across all themes, underscoring its foundational role in program sustainability. The findings offer a conceptual framework to inform Indonesia’s MBG implementation, highlighting the need for cross-sectoral coordination, localized capacity development, and professional training systems. This study contributes to evidence-based policy design by aligning Indonesia’s MBG initiative with global best practices in school nutrition governance.