In the heart of Randburg, South Africa, the Kairos School of Inquiry is making waves with its innovative approach to combating childhood obesity. At lunchtime, students eagerly line up for a meal that’s not only nutritious but also predominantly vegetarian. The menu features dishes like kitchari—a blend of daal and rice—accompanied by tomato chutney, halloumi, and fresh salad. This initiative is part of the school’s broader strategy to address a global health crisis: the alarming rise in childhood obesity, which has now surpassed undernutrition in prevalence. Headteacher Marc Loon has implemented a strict healthy food policy, emphasizing the importance of mindful eating. ‘If all schools adopted our approach, children’s health would significantly improve,’ he asserts. The United Nations reports that the number of overweight and obese adolescents has nearly tripled in the past two decades, with South Africa being one of the hardest-hit countries. Unicef highlights the role of convenience foods in this surge, particularly in low- and middle-income nations. Mamkhabela Mthembu, a 23-year-old trainee lawyer, shared her personal struggle with weight gain during university, attributing it to her reliance on fast food. ‘I never saw junk food as unhealthy; it was a symbol of aspiration,’ she recalls. Now an advocate for Unicef, Mthembu is raising awareness about the long-term health impacts of poor dietary choices. The South African government has taken steps to curb obesity, such as taxing sugary drinks, but challenges remain. Unicef’s Gilbert Tshitaudzi stresses the need for systemic changes, including restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children. Meanwhile, parents like Memory Padi face daily battles to keep their children healthy. Her eight-year-old daughter, Sophia, struggles with weight issues linked to steroid treatments for a rare autoimmune disease. Despite efforts to maintain a low-carb diet, Sophia’s weight remains a concern. The Kairos School’s initiative serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how institutions can play a pivotal role in fostering healthier futures for the next generation.