Regular health check-ups at school delight parents

By Santosh Raut,Solukhumbu, Mar. 8:To ensure uninterrupted education, the ward office of Solududhkunda Municipality-2 in Solukhumbu district has conducted regular health check-ups for nearly 450 students across all community schools in the ward, leaving parents delighted.

With medical examinations addressing health issues and dental problems faced by students, parents have expressed their happiness as children can now continue their studies without interruptions.

 “Earlier, when we had to take our children to the hospital for treatment, they would miss school. This programme has made things much easier,” said Chhiring Sherpa, a parent from Junbesi Secondary School.

A team of healthcare professionals has been visiting schools every two months to conduct general health check-ups, while dental examinations are carried out every four months, according to Iwad Thitey Sherpa, Ward Chairperson of Solududhkunda Municipality-2.

Ward Chairperson Sherpa emphasised that ensuring good health among students is crucial for better learning outcomes, which is why this initiative was introduced. He stated that health and education are being prioritised as fundamental needs of the people. “With this programme, not only will students’ health improve, but it will also contribute to their continued learning,” he added.

Govinda Bahadur Basnet, the headmaster of Himalayan Sherpa Buddhist Basic School, mentioned that the programme had been a great help to both students and parents. “When children fall ill, they have to skip school to visit the hospital, which affects their studies. This initiative has been very beneficial,” he said.

The programme includes free health and dental check-ups, along with medication distribution. The ward claims this to be the first initiative in Nepal where students of community schools receive regular free medical and dental examinations in schools.