XN000022-1972-07-21 — Page 2

2

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