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Friday, July 21, 1972
THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTH EDUCATION AMONG YOUTH
The Director of Medical and Health Services, Dr. G.H. Choa, today
urged young people entering the teaching profession to help the medical
authorities promote health in the community by playing an active part in
propagating health education.
He was speaking at the annual speech day of the Grantham College
of Education,
He told the graduates that in his opinion, health education in schools
should be based on the health needs and interests of children and youth
normally met by the home, the community, and the school working in co-operation.
Dr. Choa divided these needs and interests into two categories
physical needs, and mental and emotional needs.
Of the first, he said they include adequate nutrition, a healthy
environment, rest and sleep, suitable physical activity, protection from disease,
and appropriate medical and dental care.
To meet the mental and emotional needs, a child should feel that he
is wanted, understood, accepted and respected as a person, and is in effect a
member of his family, school and community.
"The teacher should know that good health contributes to happy living and
effective learning, while basic health habits and attitudes are formed during
the period of childhood and youth," he said.
/Dr. Choa