TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Education is calling on schools and students to discuss whether food deliveries should be allowed on campus, CNA reported on Friday.
Earlier this month, some students at Taipei Municipal Zhong Shan Girls High School staged a protest by eating lunch outside the principal’s office. They were opposing rising food prices on campus and a school policy that limited students to ordering outside food once per month.
In response, Chang Yun-fen (張云棻), principal of the school, said the school had explained the reasons behind the price increase of on-campus food. She noted the policy for food ordering was decided by a committee made up of teachers, and that students are welcome to voice their opinions.
Chang added the school's student committee conducted a survey in 2023, and nearly 72% of students supported adjusting the rules on outside food orders. She said that classes with good performance may be allowed to increase the number of monthly food orders.
The ministry said the issue involves concerns over traffic control, food safety, and campus security. The agency has held two meetings with high school representatives and revised the relevant regulations on food deliveries.
It added that schools can collect student feedback through surveys and discuss the matter in administrative meetings. Students can also voice their opinions through class unions or student councils.
EdYouth Chair Hung Chen-hsiang (洪振翔) said that some students spend a lot of time waiting in line for food during lunchtime, with others unable to get food even after the lunch period ends. He urged schools to establish a more effective system, noting that restricting food orders does not solve the issue.
According to food delivery platform Foodpanda, most orders from high school students are placed around lunchtime, with popular items including fast food and bubble tea. The company added that Taipei First Girls High School ranked first in the number of school orders nationwide.
