The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) of the United Arab Emirates ran a back-to-school health awareness campaign from August 17 to 31 to equip parents and students with insights into the significance of adopting healthy lifestyles as they return to school. The campaign emphasises the benefits of physical activity, a balanced diet, regulated sleep patterns, and controlled electronic screen time.
Under the campaign, six community events were held at Lulu Hypermarkets. Additionally, an exclusive awareness session was organised specifically for MoHAP employees. The events involved a series of activities, including healthy cooking workshops for parents and children, guided by expert chefs, where they learned how to prepare nutritious school meals.
Nutritionists provided participants with tips on how to preserve food in school lunch bags during prolonged school hours. They also introduced parents to the 5,210 health concept, which emphasises five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, an hour of physical activity, limiting screen time to less than 2 hours, and avoiding sugary and energy drinks. The events also featured discussions with health educators on packing a balanced school lunch, body mass index (BMI) screenings, health counselling for parents, and engaging quizzes.
The campaign, a synergised effort with governmental and private entities, fell under the ‘Health-Promoting Schools’ initiative launched by the World Health Organisation and UNESCO to holistically enhance the health and well-being of students.
