In Gujarat, schools are taking action against the growing number of diabetes cases among children. The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) has directed all District Education Officers (DEOs) to implement ‘Sugar Boards’ in every school. These boards will raise awareness about sugar consumption and promote healthier eating habits among students.
Diabetes, particularly Type-2 diabetes, has become a serious health concern for children. Research shows that this condition, once mostly seen in adults, is now affecting younger populations due to unhealthy eating patterns. The GSHSEB reports that children aged 4 to 10 consume about 13% of their daily calories from sugar, while those aged 11 to 18 consume around 15%. Both figures are significantly higher than the recommended limit of 5%.
The Sugar Boards will be positioned in visible areas of each school. They will provide essential information, including:
– Recommended daily sugar intake
– Sugar content in popular foods and drinks
– Health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption
Schools are also required to hold seminars and workshops aimed at educating students, teachers, and parents about the dangers of high sugar intake. DEOs will ensure that these guidelines are followed strictly.
The initiative mirrors steps taken by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), which has also introduced similar measures in its affiliated schools across India. The aim is to foster better eating habits that can help reduce the risk of diabetes and other health issues.
In recent months, there has been a notable increase in lifestyle diseases among children. This trend is alarming for health officials, who attribute it to the rise in sugary snacks and processed foods available in schools. The GSHSEB’s efforts are part of a broader campaign to tackle this issue and promote nutrition literacy among young people.
Gujarat is not alone in this fight. Other regions, like Chandigarh and Kolkata, are also implementing similar health initiatives in schools. They are focusing on educating students about nutrition and encouraging them to make healthier food choices. In Chandigarh, for instance, all schools have been ordered to set up Sugar Boards and are not allowed to sell high-fat and high-sugar foods on school grounds.
The goal is to create a supportive environment where students can learn about nutrition and understand the long-term effects of their dietary choices. By making children aware of what they eat, schools hope to empower them to make better decisions about their health.
In addition to Sugar Boards and seminars, schools are encouraged to engage students in hands-on activities related to nutrition. These could include cooking classes, gardening projects, or even fun competitions to promote healthy eating.
As this initiative rolls out, schools must submit documentation and photographs of their Sugar Boards and related activities by mid-July. This will help the GSHSEB monitor progress and ensure that schools are effectively implementing the guidelines.
This proactive approach by Gujarat’s education authorities aims to foster a healthier future for children. With diabetes and other health issues on the rise, the need for awareness and education has never been more critical. The introduction of Sugar Boards is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that other states will follow suit in prioritising the health of their students.
Leave a Reply