2.3.2 Students and staff hunger interventions

  • 2.3.2 Students and staff hunger interventions

2023-2024


The AASTMT adopts a comprehensive and proactive approach to mitigating hunger and promoting food security within its academic community. Through structured interventions—including subsidized and free meal programs for scholarship students, partnerships with on-campus dining outlets, and targeted initiatives and seasonal food drives—AASTMT works to ensure that no student is left vulnerable to food insecurity. By institutionalizing such programs, the Academy cultivates a compassionate and sustainable campus ecosystem where equitable access to nutritious food becomes a shared commitment and a cornerstone of student success.

AASTMT’s Role in Addressing Hunger and helping the community


Ana Masrawya - Iftar day 2024

In April 2024, the College of International Transport and Logistics (CITL) at AASTMT organized a community service initiative titled “Iftar Day 2024.” In collaboration with the “Ana Masrawya” Foundation, the college distributed 180 iftar meals to marginalized communities in the Abu Qir area. This initiative demonstrates AASTMT’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and hunger alleviation, aligning with the goals of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The event was led by the Student Union Council of CITL, whose members actively participated in preparing and distributing meals. The effort also highlighted the role of student leadership in promoting empathy, civic engagement, and sustainable community support. Through partnerships with charitable foundations and the voluntary participation of students and faculty, AASTMT continues to foster a culture of giving, solidarity, and social impact—extending the university’s mission beyond education to meaningful community development.


https://aast.edu/en/news/news-details.php?event_type_id=6&language=1&news_id=486102247&unit_id=153&utm_source


Community Food Support Initiatives

As part of its ongoing social responsibility efforts, the Academy regularly expands its food distribution initiatives during key religious and community occasions such as Ramadan and the Feast. In collaboration with local NGOs and community partners, surplus or specially prepared meals from the Academy’s kitchens is distributed to underprivileged neighborhoods in Alexandria and surrounding areas. This initiative aims to promote solidarity, reduce food waste, and extend the Academy’s values of compassion and civic engagement beyond campus walls, ensuring that both students and staff contribute actively to improving community welfare during these significant times of giving.

“Orphans Day”

AASTMT ensures on celebrating “Orphan Day” each year as part of its strong commitment to community service and social responsibility. During this event, children from local orphanages are welcomed to the academy’s campuses, where students and staff organize fun activities, games, entertainment shows, and shared meals. The celebration aims to bring joy to the children, promote compassion among students, and strengthen the academy’s role in supporting social inclusion and humanitarian values within the community. In addition, the academy is mindful of addressing issues such as childhood stunting  and food insecurity by providing nutritious meals during the event, helping support the children’s growth and overall well-being. Celebrations this year were done on Abu Qir Campus, and there are plans for future years to be spread across all other campuses across Egypt.


Future Plans for community initiatives

As part of its future plans for 2025, AASTMT aims to organize multiple events that aim to continue spreading help to those in need concerning hunger issues. For example, building on previous successful initiatives, students and faculty members from the College of Hotel and Tourism plan on collaborating with local NGO’s kitchen to prepare and distribute hundreds of ready meals to support fasting individuals in need during the holy month of Ramadan. This planned initiative aligns with the Academy’s vision of fostering empathy, service, and civic responsibility among its students while providing them with meaningful experiential learning opportunities. It also aims to repeat the event of orphan day across its multiple campuses. Through these activities, AASTMT seeks to further strengthen its mission of contributing positively to society and promoting the values of compassion and community solidarity across its academic environment.

2022-2023 

AASTMT demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing student hunger through structured interventions that ensure access to affordable and nutritious food. By providing discounted meals, free meal provisions for scholarship students, and food supplies through organized initiatives, AASTMT prioritizes the well-being of its diverse student community. Programs like "Nourishing Hope," partnerships with campus dining venues, and seasonal food drives underscore its commitment to alleviating hunger and promoting sustainable food practices. These measures create a supportive campus environment, aligning with global efforts to combat food insecurity.


Provision of Discounted food, Free Meals and Food Supplies

AASTMT ensures food security for its students through multiple initiatives:

1. Discounted and Free Meals:

AASTMT has partnerships with on-campus dining venues, offering discounts ranging from 5% to 30%. Free meals are provided to students with full scholarships, reducing financial barriers to accessing nutritious food.

2. Social Marketing Initiatives:

The "Nourishing Hope" project engages marketing students to tackle campus hunger by redistributing surplus food from campus dining facilities. This initiative also raises awareness about food waste and responsible consumption, contributing to a culture of sustainability.

These interventions highlight AASTMT’s dedication to addressing hunger among its student body, ensuring access to balanced meals, and fostering a community-centered approach to food security.

3. Nourishing Communities: AAST’s Commitment to Healthy Meals for Those in Need

The Arab Academy for Science and Technology (AAST) has launched an inspiring, ongoing initiative where students actively prepare and serve healthy, nutritious meals to those in need. This program emphasizes improving food security and promoting sustainable agricultural systems. By focusing on balanced and wholesome meal preparation, the initiative addresses hunger while advocating for the importance of proper nutrition in fostering healthier communities.

The project also supports local farmers and small-scale food producers by sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients, contributing to their economic growth and reinforcing the local food supply chain. This recurring event exemplifies AAST’s dedication to creating a lasting impact through sustainable practices, community engagement, and the promotion of food security for vulnerable populations. Through this initiative, AAST continues to uphold its commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and fostering a culture of compassion and sustainability.


2021-2022

At the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), we place a strong emphasis on ensuring food security for both our staff and students. Recognizing that good health is essential for individuals to be effective and efficient, we have implemented comprehensive measures to provide them with access to nutritious meals. We offer food options not only on campus but also outside of campus, ensuring that individuals have convenient and reliable sources of sustenance. Our commitment to their well-being is demonstrated through a variety of initiatives, including the provision of discounts and free meals. By offering these incentives, we aim to alleviate financial burdens and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to maintain a healthy diet. This approach not only promotes the overall health and well-being of our staff and students but also enhances their productivity and effectiveness in their respective roles within the AASTMT community.

Provision of Discounts and Free Meals

Hunger is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide, including students and staff in universities and colleges. Hunger can lead to malnutrition, poor academic performance, and a decrease in work productivity. Therefore, it is essential to provide access to healthy and nutritious meals for students and staff to ensure their well-being.

Preparing and providing meals on campus and in restaurants can be an effective way to combat hunger among students and staff. On-campus dining facilities can offer a variety of meal options that meet the dietary needs of students and staff, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Additionally, restaurants located near the campus can also provide affordable and healthy meal options for students and staff who are unable to bring their own food.

Moreover, preparing and providing meals on campus and in restaurants can also help to build a sense of community among students and staff. Eating together can foster social connections and create opportunities for networking and collaboration.​​​​​​​

Preparing and providing meals on campus and in restaurants is crucial for addressing hunger among students and staff in universities and colleges. It not only promotes good health but also creates a sense of community among individuals.

The provided link offers valuable information regarding the availability of food security options both inside and outside the campus of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT). This comprehensive resource highlights various establishments that cater to the food needs of AASTMT students and staff, ensuring that they have access to affordable and discounted meal options. By exploring the link, individuals can discover a wide range of dining options within the campus premises, such as cafeterias or food courts that offer discounted meals to the AASTMT community. Additionally, the link also provides details about nearby restaurants, cafes, and eateries located outside the campus that extend discounts or special offers exclusively to AASTMT students and staff. This comprehensive coverage of food security options inside and outside the campus ensures that the AASTMT community can enjoy affordable and diverse dining choices while maintaining their nutritional needs.​​​​​​​

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