A total of 118 schools in Lusaka and Chongwe districts are currently benefiting from the School Health Programme, which seeks to improve access to basic healthcare services among learners.
Lusaka Deputy Permanent Secretary Professor Gideon Mwanza says the programme uses teachers trained as community health workers to provide basic health services, supported by health rooms established within schools.
Professor Mwanza says the initiative, implemented by the Ministries of Education and Health with technical and implementation support from Healthy Learners, is expected to extend to Chilanga and Kafue districts.
He says the programme is based on the recognition that children’s health plays an important role in their ability to learn and that investing in the health of young people contributes to building a thriving society.
The planned expansion is expected to require stronger collaboration and commitment among Government ministries, schools and implementing partners to ensure more learners benefit from the initiative.
By Mike Mwendachabe
