Management of a Shared-Meal Culture in the Free Nutritious Meal Program Based on Islamic Values to Strengthen Students’ Empathy and Solidarity

This study aims to analyze the management of a shared-meal culture within the Free Nutritious Meal Program (Program Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) based on Islamic values and its contribution to strengthening students’ empathy and solidarity. The study employed a qualitative method with an exploratory analytical approach. The research was conducted at SDN 1 Bodak, Central Lombok Regency, involving 20 fifth- and seventh-grade students selected purposively as informants. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews with the principal, homeroom teachers, and students, as well as documentation. Data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, comprising data collection, data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings indicate that the management of the shared-meal culture was implemented in a structured and organized manner through scheduled activities, food inspection, meal distribution, collective prayer, shared meals, practices of sharing, and habituation of cleanliness and responsibility. These practices integrated Islamic values of religiosity, ta’awun (mutual assistance), ukhuwah (brotherhood), care, and togetherness into students’ daily activities. The shared-meal culture also created a social interaction space that encouraged students to help one another, pay attention to their peers’ conditions, share food, and develop closer interpersonal relationships. The findings suggest that the shared-meal culture within the MBG Program has the potential to serve as an Islamic educational management practice that integrates nutritional fulfillment with social character development, particularly the strengthening of students’ empathy and solidarity.