Healthy schools, healthier generations

Schools are not only places of learning; they are also important settings for disease prevention and health promotion. Yet, in Sindh, the health needs of school-going children remain insufficiently addressed. Poor sanitation, unsafe drinking water, inadequate nutrition and limited access to basic health services can directly affect children's health, attendance and learning. There is encouraging local evidence that school-based interventions can make a difference. A recent study involving 357 students from five public schools in Azam Basti, Karachi, evaluated a six-month health intervention covering hygiene education, deworming, health screening and corrective eyewear. Following the intervention, dental decay declined from 38.4% to 19.9%, while normal visual acuity increased from 77% to 94.8%. Underweight prevalence also fell from 28.9% to 23%. These findings demonstrate the potential of practical, school-based health interventions. Sindh also has an important evidence base through the School-age Children Health and Nutrition Survey (SCANS) 2020, conducted with the participation of the Government of Sindh and Aga Khan University. The evidence is available; what is needed now is sustained implementation. Sindh should develop a comprehensive, province-wide school health programme integrating routine health screening, nutrition education, deworming, oral and visual health, mental health awareness, physical activity, safe drinking water, sanitation and effective referral services. The government should build on existing evidence and initiatives rather than relying on isolated or short-term projects. Strong collaboration between the health and education departments, universities and communities can make school health a sustainable part of Sindh's public health system. Healthy children learn better, attend school more regularly and have a stronger chance of becoming healthy adults. Investing in healthy schools today is an investment in Sindh's future. Naqash Mukhtiar Karachi