Colombia’s School Feeding Program (PAE) plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and improving educational access for millions of students, particularly in vulnerable communities. The program aims to reduce educational inequalities by providing nutritional support, yet resource allocation and governance challenges hinder its effectiveness. This study evaluates the equity and efficiency of PAE, using Gini Index analysis to assess funding disparities and their impact on social equity in education and policy implementation. Based on data from 97 Certified Territorial Entities (ETCs) in 2023, the findings reveal significant inequalities in per capita funding and structural weaknesses in policy execution, which affect student well-being, school retention, and learning outcomes.

The Gini coefficient for PAE funding (0.25) indicates relative equity at the national level, yet regional disparities persist. Per capita funding ranges from 67 USD in urban areas (e.g., La Estrella) to 833 USD in remote regions (e.g., Guainía), reflecting higher logistical costs in rural areas. However, the allocation model prioritizes population size over food security indices, leading to inequitable resource distribution. For instance, regions with high food insecurity indices, such as the Pacific (0.50) and Llanos (0.48), receive significantly lower per capita funding than urban centers, exacerbating existing educational and social disparities. These results highlight structural inefficiencies in policy design, weakening the program’s ability to support vulnerable students, improve learning quality, and foster long-term socio-economic mobility.

To enhance program efficiency, this study proposes five key policy recommendations:
1. Aligning resource allocation with food security indices to better serve vulnerable populations.
2. Investing in regional infrastructure to improve food distribution and reduce logistical barriers.
3. Enhancing transparency and accountability through digital tracking and independent oversight.
4. Expanding School Feeding Committees (CAEs)—currently active in only 62% of ETCs—to promote inclusive decision-making and program adaptability.
5. Developing flexible policy frameworks that adapt to regional needs and economic changes.

Policy and Global Implications:
While PAE exhibits national-level equity, inequitable funding structures and governance issues limit its full potential. By adopting international best practices and evidence-based policy reforms, the program can enhance its effectiveness, inclusivity, and impact on education and food security. This study contributes to global discussions on school feeding programs, providing valuable policy insights for improving similar initiatives worldwide.
In conclusion, achieving equity in school feeding programs requires efficient resource allocation, stronger governance, and regional adaptability. By integrating nutritional assistance with broader educational policies, Colombia can improve student outcomes, strengthen human capital development, and enhance economic opportunities for future generations.

Keywords: Equity, education policy, school feeding programs, governance, social inclusion.