iciHaiti – PNCS : Towards a new dynamic in school feeding

Haiti’s National Education Ministry has initiated a significant leadership transition at the National School Canteen Program (PNCS) with the appointment of Lucson Philémond as General Coordinator on February 26th. He succeeds Kevenot Dorvil, who held the position from November 2024 until February 2026.

Education Minister Augustin Antoine emphasized that this strategic appointment centers on three fundamental principles: enhanced transparency, strict administrative rigor, and measurable social impact. Minister Antoine articulated the program’s critical importance, stating, “School canteens extend beyond mere food provision; they serve as catalysts for educational achievement. As the traditional saying reminds us: ‘Timoun grangou pa ka aprann’ (A hungry child cannot learn). By ensuring daily meals, the state actively reduces social inequalities and fosters improved academic concentration.”

The newly appointed coordinator brings substantial technical qualifications to the role, holding degrees in both computer science and logistics from the Integrated Caribbean University (UNICA). This educational background provides crucial expertise for managing the program’s complex distribution networks and supply chain operations.

In his inaugural address, Philémond committed to governing with both humility and determination, outlining three primary objectives: implementing the National School Feeding Policy, optimizing supply chain mechanisms to expand coverage, and strengthening accountability measures for technical and financial partners.

Demonstrating immediate operational engagement, Philémond visited the Gérald Bataille warehouses just one day after his appointment. Accompanied by his technical team, he conducted meetings with facility managers to evaluate existing operational challenges firsthand. This preliminary site inspection signifies a proactive management approach focused on identifying logistical bottlenecks and ensuring nutritional aid reaches schoolchildren without unnecessary delays.