<![CDATA[The Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) is one of the government's strategic initiatives aimed at improving the nutritional status of students, supporting the quality of education, and reducing the risk of malnutrition among school-aged children. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program in Pasie Raja District, South Aceh Regency, by assessing the program's effectiveness, target accuracy, service quality, and the supporting and inhibiting factors affecting its implementation. The study employed a qualitative approach using an evaluative research method. Data were collected through observations, interviews with school personnel, meal providers, and relevant government agencies, as well as document analysis. The data were analyzed through the processes of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the Free Nutritious Meal Program has provided positive benefits by improving students' access to nutritious meals and supporting their concentration during learning activities. However, several challenges remain, including delays in food distribution, limited menu variety, and suboptimal monitoring of food quality. Therefore, stronger inter-agency coordination, enhanced monitoring and evaluation systems, and improvements in distribution mechanisms are necessary to ensure the program is implemented more effectively, efficiently, and sustainably. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable input for local governments and other stakeholders in improving the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Program.]]>
