MoE Douglas Munsaka Siakalima unveils groundbreaking initiative in Livingstone District by commissioning 20 purpose-built school health rooms

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CHALI MULENGA

Livingstone

Minister of Education Douglas Munsaka Syakalima has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative in Livingstone District by commissioning twenty purpose-built school health rooms.

Mr Syakalima said these rooms are poised to revolutionize health service delivery in schools, aiming to provide a dedicated space for learners to address personal health concerns, recuperate from illnesses on-site, and consequently reduce absenteeism, fostering enhanced student performance.

Mr Syakalima, conveyed the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment conducive to quality education and healthcare services.

He said this in a speech read on his behalf by provincial education officer Nosiku Mwiya in Livingstone.

“The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health, and has received crucial technical and financial support from Healthy Learners,” he said.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to guaranteeing every Zambian child has access to quality education.

Mr Syakalima said stressed the pivotal correlation between health and academic performance, underscoring that student health is integral to ensuring the benefits of education are fully realized without the hindrance of absenteeism or health-related attention deficits.

“The success of similar programs across various provinces, benefiting over 850,000 students, has led to increased demand in Livingstone District. It indicates the potential to reduce illness-related absenteeism and enhance learner performance,” he said.

Moreover, Livingstone District Health Director Kalaluka Malungwe, highlighted the ministry’s focus on ensuring accessible healthcare for the local community.

She explained the need for healthcare facilities within educational settings due to the substantial time children spend at school.

Dr. Malungwe reiterated the importance of equitable healthcare services across different generations, expressing a commitment to maintaining and enhancing healthcare for children and the wider community.

At the handover ceremony, held at Libuyu Primary and Secondary School, District Education Board Secretary Charles Miyoba expressed immense pride and gratitude, acknowledging the invaluable donation of these health rooms by Healthy Learners.

He said the impact of the School Health Programme was a pivotal aspect highlighted, showcasing a reduction in learner absenteeism and improved academic performance, with parents now attesting to its benefits.

“The handover signifies a collective effort between the education and health sectors, aiming to ensure the holistic development and well-being of students in Livingstone District,” he said.

And Healthy Learners vice President Job Milapo expressed enthusiasm, emphasizing the positive impact these health rooms will have in providing essential healthcare, contributing to reduced absenteeism and improved educational outcomes.

Healthy Learners aims to expand the program across Zambia, with plans to serve over 2 million children by 2025, extending learning opportunities and improving health outcomes.

And Chief’s wife, Veronica, acknowledged the pivotal role of good health in child development.

She highlighted the importance of providing healthcare services within educational institutions and expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts in ensuring the well-being of students.

She said the significance of the newly introduced health rooms, and expressed hope for their optimal use to benefit the entire community.

The introduction of these health rooms marks a significant stride in enhancing healthcare accessibility for school children in Livingstone District, reflecting a collective endeavor to support the health needs of students and foster an environment conducive to learning and development.

End

Chali Mulenga
Journalist, Blogger, Media consultant.

260 955 390 898/0967
260 979 777136
Livingstone, Zambia
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