The Chinese central government has allocated more than 80 billion yuan (13 billion U.S. dollars) since 2011 to improve nutrition among rural students, the Ministry of Education said Thursday.

Money has been spent on subsidies for student meals, construction of school canteens and grants for those from poverty-hit families, the ministry said on its website.

Regulations have been implemented to ensure timely allocation, sound management as well as safe and efficient use of the cash.

Vice Minister of Education Lu Xin said at a video conference on Thursday the construction of school canteens would be stepped up so that rural students can have meals at their schools by next spring. Currently, many pupils have to eat outside of school due to a lack of kitchen equipment and cooks.

Lu urged education officials at all levels to strengthen food safety supervision in schools and punish those involved in crimes and corruption concerning food safety.