Cambodia Promotes Healthy Eating in Schools to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases

The Provincial Department of Education, Youth, and Sport of Kampong Thom is intensifying campaigns to promote healthy eating habits in educational institutions as a countermeasure against the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This initiative involves collaboration with international organizations and local communities to enhance health awareness among students. On July 15th, a healthy food exhibition was held at Prang Samraong Primary School in Tang Kok District, Kampong Thom Province. The event saw the participation of approximately 1203 individuals, including representatives from the Provincial Department of Education, Youth, and Sport, a coordination officer from Helen Keller International, stakeholders supported by the World Diabetes Foundation (WDF), monks, school principals, teachers, parents, and students. The exhibition focused on three primary schools: Meas Kong, Siri Samakki, and Prang Samraong. Following a report on progress and challenges by the principal of Prang Samraong Primary School, Ms. Sopheak, the commune chief of Chranong and a representative of the local authorities, expressed gratitude to the involved agencies, especially parents and teachers. She urged parents to prioritize their children's health, particularly concerning NCDs that pose a significant threat to public life. Mr. Bi Rithyden, a coordination officer from Helen Keller International, explained that the organization, with support from the WDF, is implementing an NCD risk reduction program in 40 primary schools across Kampong Thom Province, with 14 schools in Tang Kok District. As part of this program, healthy food exhibitions and nutritional assessments for parents and students are being conducted. The objective is to deepen understanding of NCDs, including diabetes, their impacts, and preventive measures in Cambodia. The initiative also aims to foster cooperation among stakeholders to identify healthy food options and establish official guidelines for food sold and consumed within schools. Mr. Sean Hokheng, Chief of the Study Health Office at the Provincial Department of Education, Youth, and Sport, conveyed sincere thanks and praise to the local authorities, education officials at all levels, and teachers for their dedicated efforts. He also acknowledged the contributions and support from families, communities, local authorities, philanthropists, and development partners in advancing the education sector in Kampong Province, under the slogan "Public-Community Partnership for Education." Mr. Hokheng highlighted that the healthy food exhibition, utilizing local agricultural products, was organized in collaboration with Helen Keller International and aims to promote the well-being of children, who are the future generation. Source: AKP Khmer