On 5 August 2025, the World Food Programme (WFP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Science, Ministry of Health and Social Protection, Russian Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI), hosted one of the qualifying rounds of the Best School Cook Competition 2025 in Dushanbe. The event brought together four skilled school cooks from urban schools, each showcasing their culinary skills and commitment to healthy school nutrition.

Using ingredients from the everyday school ration and recipes featured in the School Meals Recipe Book, the cooks prepared a nutritious and delicious selection of meals, including osh, buckwheat with meat, vegetable salad, and pancakes. These dishes demonstrated how simple, locally available ingredients can be transformed into balanced meals that support children's health and growth.

After tasting and evaluating the dishes, the jury selected two finalists. They will compete with 7 other candidates from 5 regions of the country for the title "Best school cook - 2025" in Tajikistan, which will be held in September this year in the city of Dushanbe. 

As a token of appreciation, each participant received gifts, recognizing their dedication and contribution to improving school nutrition across the country.