De la nutrición al conocimiento: influencia del estado nutricional en el rendimiento escolar de los estudiantes pertenecientes al Programa de Alimentación Escolar (PAE)

Abstract

This monograph investigates the influence of the nutritional status of students benefiting from the School Feeding Program (PAE) on their academic performance, using the ICFES tests as a reference. An exhaustive review of the literature and an analysis of ICFES data for the year 2023 were conducted, along with an examination of PAE coverage in some departments. Comparative graphs were generated to identify the relationship between academic performance and PAE coverage. The results showed variations between departments, with a weak relationship between PAE coverage and ICFES scores (R² = 0.0444). For example, Casanare, with 44.72% coverage, obtained an ICFES score of 252.312, while Nariño, with 95.72% coverage, obtained an ICFES score of 249.931. The conclusion suggests that socioeconomic factors have a greater influence on academic outcomes and that the PAE should be evaluated comprehensively to improve its effectiveness. It is recommended to address other factors affecting educational performance and to ensure better distribution and quality of the food provided to students.