Africa-Press – Mauritius. The School Health Programme (SHP), targeting students in Grades 7, 9 and 12 across all public and private secondary schools in Mauritius, was launched this morning at the Mohun Parsad Sharma Jugdambi State Secondary School (SSS) in Goodlands.
The programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development. It aims to facilitate the early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and associated risk factors, while promoting good health among students. It also focuses on health education, covering key areas such as nutrition, healthy lifestyles, personal hygiene, and communicable diseases.
Under the Programme, students will undergo blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, weight assessments to identify underweight, overweight or obesity, as well as vision tests. Students found with health issues will be advised accordingly and referred for further medical care when necessary.
The launching ceremony was held in the presence of the Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo; the Minister of Education and Human Resource, Dr Mahend Gungapersad; the Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Mrs Anishta Babooram; Members of the National Assembly; the Rector of Mohun Parsad Sharma Jugdambi SSS, Mrs Jotee Jeebun-Beenud; and other personalities.
In his address, Minister Bachoo recalled that the launch of the SHP reflects the Government’s clear priority to safeguard and enhance the health of students. He averred that investing in children’s health is fundamental, as good health underpins effective learning, supports overall personal development, and contributes directly to the country’s long-term socio-economic progress.
Mr Bachoo further expressed concern over the rising prevalence of NCDs in Mauritius, notably diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases and cancer. Such conditions develop gradually and often have their origins at a young age, he warned.
Referring to recent screening results, the Minister observed that cases of diabetes, pre-diabetes and obesity have already been identified among secondary school students. He described these findings as alarming and a clear warning of serious future health risks if early preventive action is not taken.
SHP places strong emphasis on prevention through early screening and timely intervention. The Minister underlined that regular health checks allow for the early detection of risk factors and ensure appropriate medical follow-up. He also appealed to parents, educators, health professionals and students to work together in adopting healthier lifestyles, stressing that collective responsibility is crucial to reducing the burden of NCDs and securing a healthier future generation for Mauritius.
For his part, Minister Gungapersad spoke about the strong interconnection between education and health, stating that students cannot perform well academically without maintaining good physical health. He drew attention to prevailing lifestyle concerns in Mauritius, notably inadequate hydration, unhealthy eating habits and limited physical activity, and stressed that schools constitute a key setting for promoting wholesome habits from an early age.
According to him, encouraging simple but consistent health practices within the education system is essential to support both learning outcomes and overall student development.
Dr Gungapersad further underlined that well-being extends beyond physical health to include values, attitudes and respect for others. He pointed out that educational institutions have a critical responsibility in nurturing responsible behaviour, kindness and mutual respect, which are instrumental for building a stable and healthy society.
Reaffirming his commitment to the holistic development of students, the Education Minister stressed the importance of prioritising the health of young people and guiding them away from hazardous habits. He insisted that a strong education system, supported by good health, remains the foundation of the nation’s future.
