An NGO, The Productive Community for Sustainable Development Initiative (PCSDI), has called for the full implementation of the National School Health Policy (NSHP) in Sokoto State.
PCSDI, an initiative founded by Plan International, in partnership with the Canadian Government, made this appeal during an advocacy round-table meeting with key stakeholders on Friday in Sokoto.
Mr Nura Suleiman, Executive Director of PCSDI, emphasised the importance of the policy in promoting the growth and development of children, which is essential for a brighter future for the state.
“This policy is well-outlined, but it continues to be neglected in our system, negatively affecting our children.
“If fully implemented, the policy will meet the needs of everyone by improving the health standards of our children, enabling them to acquire the knowledge necessary to take on future responsibilities,” he said.
The executive director added that the policy would foster health consciousness among students if properly enforced.
Suleiman also urged the government to reactivate school clinics and dispensaries to ensure the policy’s successful implementation.
“It is unacceptable that when a student falls ill in school, the management has to call the parents to rush the child to the hospital without any first aid care,” he added.
Malam Dahiru Gada, Director of Advocacy at the Sokoto State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SSPHCDA), lauded the NGO for its initiative.
He described the full implementation of the policy as a step toward supporting the agency’s commitment to maintaining personal hygiene in schools.
“We believe that by working together, stakeholders can achieve significant progress.
“As the implementing agency, we will continue to support partners in reaching this goal for the benefit of our people,” Gada said.
Dr Bala Gadanga, the facilitator of the meeting, added that implementing the policy would improve the learning environment and the overall health of children in the state.
“The policy is clear and serves as an essential tool in meeting the needs of our schools and ensuring global health standards,” Gadanga said.
Stakeholders from the state Ministries of Basic and Secondary Education, Health, Budget and Economic Planning, as well as the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), also expressed their commitment to ensuring the success of the advocacy. (NAN)
