The Sharjah Health Promotion Department (HPD) is revamping the evaluation process for its “Healthy Schools Programme,” aiming to create a more robust framework for promoting student well-being. The department recently held a workshop for evaluators, outlining the revised criteria that emphasize a holistic approach to student health.
HPD, under the leadership of Her Excellency Iman Rashid Saif, views the “Healthy Schools Programme” as a cornerstone initiative. Sheikha Jawaher bint Muhammad Al Qasimi, Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), patronizes the program, which aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and those of other child and adolescent health organizations.
“The ‘Healthy Schools Programme’ fosters an environment that prioritizes the health of our children and adolescents,” explained H.E. Saif. “By equipping them with healthy habits early on, we empower them for a lifetime of well-being. This program is fundamental to the development of our society’s future generations, and these improvements will ensure it continues to deliver exceptional results.”
The revamped evaluation criteria go beyond traditional health metrics. Schools will now be assessed on their ability to create a school culture that champions healthy lifestyles. This includes offering healthy food options in cafeterias, promoting physical activity throughout the school day, and integrating health education into the curriculum.
The new criteria also emphasize parental and community engagement. Schools will be encouraged to develop strong partnerships with families and community organizations to reinforce healthy habits beyond the school environment.
The HPD workshop provided evaluators with the necessary tools to assess schools effectively under the new guidelines. The department is confident that the revised criteria will lead to a more comprehensive evaluation of the “Healthy Schools Programme,” ultimately resulting in a healthier school environment for Sharjah’s students.
