Sharjah's enhanced school health prgm gears up in virtual meeting

Chaired by Her Excellency Eman Rashid Saeed, Director of Health Promotion Department the meeting focused on the preparations and arrangements for the Enhanced School Health programme in collaboration with the World Health Organization. It also addressed the programme's new evaluation standards and the scientific steps to enhance the overall health of schools. The meeting further discussed the roles of each entity and their connections with the schools.

Her Excellency Eman Rashid Saeed stressed that the "Enhanced School Health" programme holds utmost significance as it aims to provide a nurturing environment for the health of children and adolescents. The program empowers them to develop healthy behaviours, preparing them for all stages of life, as they are the foundation of the developmental process. This initiative reflects the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, as well as his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs.

During the meeting, the evaluation criteria for the program were presented, encompassing 8 standards: government policies and resources, school policies and resources, school governance and leadership, school-community partnerships, curriculum and socio-emotional environment in schools, school physical environment, and school health services. The committee concluded the meeting by presenting its recommendations, focusing on coordinating with programme partners and devising an operational plan for the implementation of the programme across schools in the Emirate of Sharjah.