UNESA Holds Public Lecture on Supporting Healthy Nutrition in Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Study Program of Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA) held a Public Lecture entitled “Supporting Healthy Nutrition and Eating Behavior in ECE Environments” on Monday, February 9, 2026. The event took place at the 4th Floor Auditorium, Building 06, Faculty of Education (FIP) UNESA, and was attended by students, lecturers, and early childhood education practitioners.
The public lecture aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the importance of healthy nutrition and eating behavior in early childhood education settings. Proper nutrition during early childhood plays a vital role in supporting children’s physical growth, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. Therefore, integrating nutrition education into ECE environments is essential for fostering holistic child development.
The first speaker, Prof. Dr. Hj. Rachma Hasibuan, M.Kes., from Universitas Negeri Surabaya, highlighted the significant role of teachers and educational institutions in promoting healthy eating habits. She emphasized that educators serve as role models for children, and consistent guidance, combined with a supportive learning environment, can help shape positive eating behaviors from an early age.
The second speaker, Edwin Jaimes B. Villaflor, MBA, PFT, from Capiz State University, Philippines, shared international perspectives on nutrition education in early childhood settings. He discussed practical strategies and best practices implemented in ECE institutions to encourage children’s awareness of balanced nutrition and healthy food choices, providing valuable insights for participants.
The session was moderated by Dhian Gowinda Luh Safitri, S.Pd., M.Pd., who facilitated an interactive discussion between the speakers and participants. The question-and-answer session allowed participants to reflect on real challenges faced in implementing nutrition programs in ECE environments and explore potential solutions collaboratively.
Overall, the public lecture contributed positively to academic discourse on early childhood nutrition and health. It demonstrated UNESA’s commitment to improving the quality of early childhood education through academic activities, international collaboration, and community engagement, while reinforcing the importance of nurturing healthy generations from an early age.
