We are thrilled to share this incredible speech that Shifa in Year 12 delivered in the House of Commons. Shifa represented Cardiff as a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) during the annual sitting and we couldn't be more proud of her.
As the debate lead, Shifa passionately advocated for "free universal school food for everyone," delivering an eloquent and impactful speech. Poised and confident, she addressed critical points at the heart of political discourse. It's moments like these that exemplify the potential and brilliance of our students, and Shifa's dedication to such a vital cause reflects the values we hold dear at our school.
Adding to her accomplishments, Shifa also had the unique opportunity to visit 10 Downing Street. There, she delivered the petition "Say Yes to School Food for All" as a crucial part of the Children's Food Campaign. We are incredibly proud of Shifa's achievements and her dedication to making a positive impact on important issues.
Please read her full speech below:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm Shifa MYP for Cardiff. I’d like to begin my speech by acknowledging how fortunate we are to be here today, considering the current unfolding global situation.
I rise to emphasise once more the importance of the quality of food in our nation's schools. We have already seen the improvements made in Welsh primary schools with a flurry of reports of improved academic performance and happier school children overall. This is an issue not only of the content of their plates, but the content of their futures.
Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining both a healthy body and mind. By providing food with true nutritional value in schools, we can ensure that all children, no matter their background, their dietary requirements, or their religious beliefs, can receive at least one healthy meal a day.
By voting for this motion, we can bridge the gap between disadvantaged and privileged students, ensuring more equal access and a more equal chance for success for all.
Just looking around this room, I can see such a variety of cultures and backgrounds. And growing up as a Muslim in the UK myself, I can remember a few times when I haven't received a fulfilling meal in school. This is unacceptable. Numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between good nutrition and cognitive development.
By guaranteeing access to balanced and healthy meals for every student, we can create a more focused and engaged classroom and improve the output of our education system.
We're all taught, even in primary school, through the form of photos and diagrams, what a healthy and balanced meal looks like. How then can we possibly provide meals at those very same schools that don't meet this standard?
By encouraging healthy eating habits at a young age, children are more likely to make healthier decisions in later life. By investing in food quality now, we can reduce the burden on an already struggling healthcare system in the future.
As members have mentioned before, one in four Year 6 students are obese. I ask you all: How many more before we act?
MYPs, the importance of the quality of food in schools cannot be overlooked. It directly influences the well-being of our children, the wider economy and the future of this nation.
I will close this debate by saying this. We're already making progress in Wales. England the ball is in your court.