Africa-Press – Botswana. A national review meeting took place as the Ministry of Health worked with the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, WHO and UNESCO to assess results from the Global School Based Student Health Survey. The survey took place in September 2024 and involved learners aged 13 to 17 years across Botswana.
The survey provides clear data on health behaviours, risks and protective factors among adolescents. It helps you track shifts in behaviour, identify pressure points and strengthen support systems in schools.
The Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Nono Kgafela Mokoka, said the findings help leaders understand what learners face daily. She said the information guides policy improvements and strengthens programmes that safeguard young people.
The Botswana survey measured alcohol use, dietary behaviours, drug use, hygiene, mental health, physical activity, protective factors, sexual behaviour, tobacco use, violence and unintentional injuries. Each area highlights specific challenges and opportunities for action.
Alcohol and drug use results show exposure to substances that harm development. These insights help you improve prevention programmes in schools. Dietary behaviour findings reveal how learners eat during the day. This information supports stronger school nutrition initiatives.
Hygiene and physical activity findings show patterns that influence long term health. These results help you improve facilities and strengthen health education. Mental health data reveals stress levels and emotional wellbeing. This can inform improved counselling services and peer support structures.
Protective factors show the level of support learners receive at home and in school. Strong protective factors lower risk and improve resilience. Sexual behaviour data guides age appropriate sexuality education. Tobacco use findings reveal smoking and vaping trends among learners. Violence and injury results show levels of safety within school environments.
The meeting encouraged ministries and partners to use the results to improve policies and strengthen adolescent health programmes. The data provides a clear foundation for targeted interventions that support safe and healthy development for learners across Botswana.
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