A policy that will pave the way for our children to get the best possible growth and development out of wellness programmes in schools has been launched.

The Fiji School Health Policy was launched in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Service and the Ministry of Education. It was made at Jai Narayan College in Suva, yesterday.

The new policy was signed between Minister for Health and Medical Services Rosy Akbar and Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Mahendra Reddy.

Ms Akbar said: “This is part of the ministry’s efforts to ensure that children reach adulthood in optimum health and are able to aspire to reach to their full potential and capabilities.

Advocating measures

“This is in line with the life-course approach to health which the Ministry is advocating that is based on the understanding that childhood behaviours and experiences shape their health and their future.”

“The success of this policy depends on our close collaboration with our stakeholders to ensure that health and wellness of children is given prominence.

“It is anticipated that the national level committee which will be established under this policy will provide the leadership direction and leverage a firm commitment by the schools, students and their families to address the health issues in schools, monitor the activities and ensure that outcomes are achieved for the development of our nation,” she said.

Mr Reddy said: “Fiji School Health Policy will be implemented in all the primary and secondary schools in Fiji.”

Mr Reddy was confident in the partnership as Ms Akbar had dealt successfully with other partnerships in which his ministry was involved.

“She assisted us in numerous ways,” he said.

Mr Reddy said children needed  guidance and support towards a healthy life.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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