Belize City, September 24, 2024 (PAHO/WHO)– In a significant milestone towards fostering healthier school environments in Belize, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology (MoECST) and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW), officially handed over educational posters promoting water consumption, 30 water coolers, and a water fountain installed at St. Luke Methodist School. This initiative, supported by the Hemispheric Program on Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Policies in School Environments, aligns with efforts to encourage healthier beverage choices and reduce sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among students.
The 2024 MoECST/Fyffes Student Nutrition Survey highlighted key dietary behaviors among 322 children aged 10 to 15 years. The data revealed that 92% of the children consumed at least one sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) in the past 24 hours, while 70% drank water during the same timeframe. Additionally, the survey detailed the percentage of children consuming SSBs during different parts of the school day: 41.3% in the morning, 53.5% during the lunch period, and 30% in the afternoon. This showcases a high prevalence of SSB consumption and varied hydration habits during school hours, which could contribute significantly to the rising rates of childhood obesity and the early development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Dr. Karen Lewis-Bell, PAHO Representative, emphasized the importance of creating enabling environments to address non-communicable diseases and childhood obesity. "These efforts are closely aligned with PAHO/WHO’s strategic goals of reducing risk factors for non-communicable diseases and promoting health across the life course. It is our hope that this initiative will not only improve students' access to clean drinking water but also help instill in a culture of healthy hydration that will benefit them for life," said Dr. Lewis-Bell.
During the handover ceremony, health and education officials discussed the significance of increasing access to clean drinking water in schools, highlighting its expected role in reducing the consumption of unhealthy beverages. Attendees were also introduced to the promotional posters and educational materials developed to raise awareness about the benefits of water and healthy lifestyle practices.
This initiative builds on the successes of the "BEAT the HEAT" and "Healthy Habits, Healthy Schools" programs, which have prioritized promoting water consumption, balanced nutrition, and physical activity among students. The expected outcomes include increased water consumption, reduced intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, and improved awareness of healthy lifestyle practices across schools.
Moving forward, the MoESCT and PAHO will work collaboratively to expand this initiative to additional schools in Belize. Additionally, an evaluation survey will be conducted after implementation to assess the intervention's impact on water consumption, SSB intake, and students’ awareness of healthy hydration practices. The findings will guide future improvements and help tailor the program.
This initiative highlights the importance of multisectoral collaboration, including the MoESCT, MoHW, PAHO, and other partners, to improve the health and well-being of students across Belize.
