Health plan finds no takers in govt schools

In a circular issued to the schools, the Board had pointed out the necessity to build on the components of knowledge related to health and nutrition, developing healthy attitudes and enhancing life skills to overcome the multiple health concerns affecting school going children both in the urban and remote areas of the country.

To implement the same, the schools were to fulfill certain objectives like creating health cards for each student, carrying out surveys on health-related concerns and organising health walks as part of social campaigns.

8220;We have appointed a doctor who does a regular check-up of students.

The progress is sent to parents on a quarterly basis.

We also hold talks on various health issues to create awareness among students,8221; says Sanjay Sardana of Manav Mangal Smart School.

8220;The school monitors the physical as well as the emotional growth of students and the parents are also regularly informed. We also hold debates and discussions on various health related topics for the benefit of students,8221; says Punita Singh, counsellor, Carmel Convent School.

As per the objectives, the schools have to celebrate days like World Health Day and create awareness about World No Tobacco Day and World AIDS Day among others.

The schools have also been instructed to provide nutritious snacks in the canteen under the programme.

8220;We have not received any such instructions. Though we do have first-aid available in the school in case of emergency, but there is no full-time doctor. We are not aware that students8217; medical report has to be sent to their parents on a regular basis,8221; says a principal of a government school requesting anonymity stating that they have been asked by the department to not give any statement to the media.

Expressing concern on the programme not being implemented properly in government schools, Vinod Sharma, president, Government Teachers8217; Union said,

8220;The scheme is for the benefit of the students and it must be implemented in full spirit. Teachers as well as principals should make sure that there is a holistic development of students.8221;