President Hakainde Hichilema recently officiated the handover ceremony of the School Health Project at Malama School in Kasama, marking a significant milestone in the country’s education and healthcare sectors. The event celebrated the addition of the Malama School to a growing network of 595 similar facilities spread across Zambia, demonstrating the government’s ongoing commitment to integrating education and healthcare. This initiative ensures that students and their communities have access to essential health services within their learning environments.
The School Health Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing both the academic and health needs of pupils. By offering healthcare services directly within school premises, the program promotes student well-being and contributes to improved educational outcomes. This innovative approach acknowledges the importance of a healthy mind and body in fostering academic success.
During the ceremony, President Hichilema highlighted the impact of the program, noting that 5,000 teachers had been trained as the first line of defense in school health. These teachers are equipped to recognize and address students’ health needs, ensuring that learners receive the appropriate support. He also pointed out that 1.5 million learners across 700 schools in all 10 provinces have already benefited from the initiative.
“Achieving universal health coverage remains a national priority, and these school-based health facilities are vital in making healthcare more accessible to our students. Trained teachers play a critical role as entry points for healthcare, ensuring our learners thrive both academically and personally,” said President Hichilema.
The expansion of the School Health Program reflects the government’s broader vision of improving access to healthcare, particularly in remote areas where medical facilities may be scarce. By integrating healthcare into schools, the initiative makes it easier for children to receive the services they need without having to leave their learning environment.
President Hichilema also expressed his gratitude to the Ministries of Education and Health, as well as all the stakeholders involved in the project. “We commend the collaborative efforts that have made this initiative a success. Empowering our learners through access to healthcare is a transformative step toward building a healthier and more prosperous Zambia,” he stated.
This initiative is not only about improving the health of students but also about fostering a more holistic educational experience. The program reinforces the role of schools as centers of development, providing a safe space where learners can grow academically, socially, and health-wise. The integration of education and healthcare serves as a model for future projects, ensuring that Zambia continues to make strides toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for its citizens.